ECHS

ECHS - Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme

Introduction

    The Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) is a healthcare program established by the Indian government to provide comprehensive medical care to ex-servicemen (ESM) and their dependents.

    This scheme was launched on 1st April 2003 and is one of the largest healthcare networks in India. The primary objective of ECHS is to provide quality healthcare services to ex-servicemen and their families who are not covered under the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) or any other healthcare scheme.

Concept OF ECHS

Conceptually the ECHS is to be managed through the existing infrastructure of the Armed Forces in order to minimise the administrative expenditure. The existing infrastructure includes command and control structure, spare capacity of Service Medical facilities (Hospitals and MI Rooms), procurement organisations for medical and non medical equipment, defence land and buildings etc.

In order to ensure minimal disruption of the Scheme during war/training and availability of ECHS services in non military areas above mentioned resources are to be supplemented as follows :-

a. Establishing new Armed Forces Polyclinics in Non Military areas.

b. Augmenting existing medical facilities/clinics in some selected military stations to cater for heavy ESM load (Augmented Armed Forces Clinics).

c. Empanelling civil hospitals and diagnostic centres.

d. Finances.

Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme 

    The ECHS scheme / program has been instrumental in addressing the healthcare needs of ex-servicemen and their families who have served the nation with dedication and commitment. The program is run by the Indian Army and is available to all ex-servicemen who have retired from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and their dependents. The scheme covers a wide range of medical services, including hospitalization, consultations, laboratory tests, and medicines, among others.

    The ECHS has been successful in providing quality healthcare services to ex-servicemen and their families. It has significantly reduced the financial burden of medical expenses on ex-servicemen and their families. In this article, we will discuss various aspects of the ECHS program, including its history, benefits, eligibility criteria, services provided, and challenges faced. We will also explore how the program has evolved over the years and its role in promoting the health and well-being of ex-servicemen and their families.

ECHS Polyclinic

    In recent years, the ECHS program has expanded its reach and services to cater to the healthcare needs of ex-servicemen and their families across the country. The program has set up over 400 ECHS polyclinics and tied up with more than 1,000 hospitals and nursing homes across India to provide quality healthcare services to ex-servicemen and their families. The program also provides financial assistance for various medical treatments, including chronic diseases and disabilities.

    The ECHS program has also introduced various technology-enabled services, including telemedicine and online appointment booking systems, to improve access and delivery of healthcare services. The telemedicine services enable patients to consult with doctors remotely and receive medical advice and treatment without having to travel long distances. The online appointment booking system enables patients to book appointments with doctors and specialists conveniently and quickly.

Advantages of Becoming ECHS Member

1.    No age or medical condition bar for becoming a member.

2.    Life time contribution ranges from Rs 30,000/- to Rs 12,0000/- (depending upon Grade Pay)

3.    Provision for re-imbursement at CGHS rates, in case of treatment under Emergency in a non-empanelled facility.

4.    No monetary ceiling on treatment.

5.    Indoor/outdoor treatment, tests and medicines.

6.    Familiar environment and sense of belongingness.

7.    Covers spouse and all eligible dependents.

ECHS Program Challenges 

    However, the ECHS program also faces several challenges, including inadequate funding, shortage of healthcare professionals, and limited healthcare infrastructure in certain areas. These challenges impact the quality and accessibility of healthcare services provided to ex-servicemen and their families. The government and other stakeholders need to work together to address these challenges and improve the healthcare services provided under the ECHS program.

Issues related to ECHS

Filling up of Application Form, not able to login, not able to open portal.: 

echs[at]sourceinfosys[dot]com

WhatsApp on

+91-7703818578 

+91-7701976194 

+91-8448086480

+91-8448086481

+91-8448086482

For any other issues  Toll Free No : 1800 114 115

ECHS Portal 

More detailed information is available at echs.gov.in