**Private Hospitals in Haryana Continue Strike Over Ayushman Bharat Payments**
Private hospitals in Haryana have announced that they will maintain their strike, which began on August 7, in protest against the government’s failure to settle outstanding payments under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) in Haryana stated that treatment under this central health insurance initiative will not resume until all pending dues, totaling approximately Rs 490 crore, are cleared.
The strike has affected private hospitals statewide, including those in Panipat, leading to a significant disruption in healthcare services. The IMA has expressed frustration over the government’s partial payment release, which they claim has not resolved the ongoing deadlock. In a demonstration of their dissent, IMA members in Panipat burned an effigy, accusing the government of neglecting both healthcare providers and patients. An IMA spokesperson remarked, “Neither the service provider nor the public is happy with the Ayushman Bharat scheme,” emphasizing that hospitals will not resume services until a transparent payment framework is established in collaboration with the association.
The spokesperson further criticized the government for its inadequate communication and urged an end to the harassment of hospitals. The IMA has made it clear that the protest will persist until meaningful dialogue occurs and a permanent solution is reached.
Despite Health Minister Aarti Rao’s assertion that hospitals acted prematurely in withdrawing services, doctors argue that the strike was a necessary last resort. Dr. Kuldeep Mangla from Panchkula stated, “It is very difficult for hospitals to operate like this. We can’t wait for ages for the payments,” highlighting the impact on patients and placing the responsibility on the government.
With around 650 private hospitals in Haryana halting Ayushman Bharat services, nearly 1.5 crore beneficiaries are left without access to essential healthcare. This suspension has forced many patients to seek care at already overburdened government facilities, exacerbating the strain on public health services.
In response to the crisis, Chief Minister Nayab Saini announced the formation of a committee to verify hospital claims. However, the IMA contends that this process cannot justify the prolonged delays in payment and has reiterated its demand for direct involvement in establishing a transparent and timely payment mechanism.
A decision regarding the continuation or escalation of the strike is anticipated following scheduled discussions between the IMA and the state government. Until then, the standoff persists, leaving thousands of patients without the free healthcare promised under the Ayushman Bharat scheme.
**FAQ**
**What is the reason for the strike by private hospitals in Haryana?**
Private hospitals in Haryana are on strike due to the government’s failure to clear outstanding payments under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, which has led to a halt in treatment services.