Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana Ensures Timely Care for Respiratory Patients Across Punjab

The Punjab Government’s Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana has provided cashless treatment to more than 3,000 patients suffering from respiratory illnesses, including pneumonia, asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and breathing-related complications. Nearly ₹86 lakh has been spent on the treatment of these conditions, benefiting patients across the state. Sharing details, Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh said that a total of 3,019 treatments related to respiratory diseases have been carried out under the scheme so far. He added that around 46 lakh people have registered under the health insurance programme during the five months since its launch. The minister stated that the scheme provides cashless health insurance coverage of up to ₹10 lakh per family annually, offering crucial support to patients who require timely medical care, particularly those from economically weaker sections of society. Dr. Balbir Singh emphasized that respiratory illnesses can become life-threatening if not treated promptly. He said that the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana has reduced the financial stress on families during medical emergencies, allowing patients to receive treatment without delays caused by concerns over healthcare expenses. Highlighting the growing health challenge, he noted that respiratory diseases remain among the leading reasons for hospital admissions in Punjab, especially amid seasonal changes and increasing air pollution. According to the minister, symptoms such as cough, fever, and breathing difficulties, if ignored, can develop into serious health conditions. He further pointed out that many families previously delayed hospital visits due to financial constraints, often leading to worsening health conditions and higher treatment costs. With cashless coverage available for more than 2,300 medical procedures and treatments, the scheme is encouraging patients to seek medical attention at an early stage of illness. Reaffirming the government’s commitment to providing affordable and quality healthcare, Dr. Balbir Singh said the initiative is reducing the financial burden on families while promoting timely treatment, ultimately improving health outcomes across Punjab. Meanwhile, Dr. Jorawar Singh, Pulmonologist at Mata Kaushalya Government Hospital, Patiala, said delayed hospital visits continue to be a major challenge in the treatment of respiratory diseases. He explained that most respiratory conditions respond more effectively to treatment when diagnosed and managed early. However, many patients arrive at hospitals only after their condition has significantly deteriorated because families spend valuable time arranging treatment expenses. Dr. Jorawar Singh noted that the cashless treatment facility under the scheme is helping bridge this gap. He also warned that factors such as air pollution and seasonal smog continue to contribute to a rise in respiratory illnesses. Elderly individuals, children, and patients suffering from chronic conditions such as diabetes and kidney diseases face an even greater risk of severe health complications. He added that several patients experiencing serious breathing difficulties have already received treatment under the scheme without facing unexpected financial hardships. Appealing to the public to take preventive measures, Dr. Jorawar Singh advised people to avoid smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke, use protective equipment while working in dusty or chemical-intensive environments, and ensure proper ventilation in their homes to reduce the risk of respiratory diseases.