Suspension of aarogyasri services in telugu states

Patients in Andhra Pradesh are facing significant difficulties as outpatient department (OPD) services under the state's Aarogyasri scheme have been suspended. This disruption is a result of a decision by the Network Hospitals Association, which has vowed not to resume services until a long-standing issue with pending government dues is resolved.

According to the association, the government owes hospitals a staggering total of ₹3,800 crore, which includes ₹674 crore that is already pending in the CFMS (Comprehensive Financial Management System) for payment. The association's representatives claim that the continued non-payment of these dues makes it financially impossible for them to sustain Aarogyasri services.

Despite an assurance from the CEO of the Aarogyasri Trust that the payments would be cleared soon, the hospital association remains unconvinced. They are demanding a direct meeting with Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu to secure a final and concrete solution. This lack of trust has left thousands of poor patients in a difficult situation, as they rely on the scheme for their healthcare needs.

Similar strike in Telangana

A similar crisis is also unfolding in neighboring Telangana, where private hospitals have likewise ceased health services under the Aarogyasri scheme. The Telangana Network Hospitals Association is currently on strike, and its members are demanding a monthly payment of at least ₹500 crore to clear their dues.

This demand comes in response to the Telangana government's promise to release only ₹100 crore per month, an amount that the association deems insufficient. The hospital representatives have made it clear that they will not back down from their strike until their demands are met, putting further strain on the public health system in the state.