Introduction of Ayushmann Sarathi

The central government has introduced an official WhatsApp chatbot named ‘Ayushman Sarathi’, which aims to provide easy access to services to Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY). Through this new initiative, beneficiaries will not need to depend on government offices or call centres; They can now get services through WhatsApp 24 hours a day.

Services available on WhatsApp

Beneficiaries can check their eligibility under PM-JAY, apply for a new Ayushman card, download their card and complete the eKYC process through Ayushman Sarathi. Additionally, it will also be possible to link Aadhaar, lock or unlock the card, view treatment records and check wallet balance. Services to ‘Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card’ for persons aged 70 years and above are also available on this platform.

Hospital information and grievance redressal

This chatbot not only provides information, but beneficiaries can also use it to search for nearby panel hospitals and lodge complaints. They can track the status of their complaints or withdraw them as and when required. Additionally, the platform also offers a call-back facility and the option to give feedback after discharge from the hospital.

Government’s claim: Fast and transparent service

According to the Health Ministry, Ayushman Sarathi functions on a secure API-based system and is directly linked to the PM-JAY platform. This provides real-time information to beneficiaries, increases the speed of service and reduces the need to visit government offices. The Ministry believes that this will also improve grievance redressal and service monitoring.

How to use it?

Using Ayushman Sarathi is extremely simple. Beneficiaries can initiate the chatbot by sending “HI” to +91 72908 23838 or by scanning the QR code issued by the government. After this, they will get the options of all the available services directly on WhatsApp.

Importance of this initiative

Ayushman Bharat is one of the largest government health insurance schemes in the world, covering crores of people. The availability of services on widely used platforms like WhatsApp will make the scheme more convenient and faster than ever for the beneficiaries. People in rural areas in particular, and those with less exposure to digital services, will directly benefit from this initiative.