Article Today, Hyderabad/Amaravati:
Healthcare schemes for the poor in both Telugu States are set to be disrupted as private hospitals have announced suspension of services. In Andhra Pradesh, the NTR health scheme is facing a halt in outpatient services, while in Telangana, Aarogyasri services will be stopped from Tuesday midnight. Hospitals cite unpaid dues of Rs. 2,500 crore in Andhra Pradesh and Rs. 1,400 crore in Telangana as the reason for their decision.
Repeated Appeals Ignored
Hospital associations in both States said they had repeatedly appealed to governments to clear pending bills. The Andhra Pradesh Specialty Hospitals Association (ASHA) wrote to the State urging immediate release of dues. Similarly, Telangana Network Hospitals Association (TANHA) president Vaddiraju Rakesh said that despite multiple meetings over the last three weeks, no progress had been made. Hospitals also allege that payments under the Employees Health Scheme and Journalists Health Scheme have been pending for 22 months, creating severe financial stress.
Impact on Patients
The suspension of services is expected to affect poor families who rely heavily on these schemes for free treatment. With government hospitals already overcrowded, doctors fear they may not be able to handle the additional load. During the previous strike in January this year, patients faced serious hardships, and a repeat of such a situation now during the seasonal disease period could worsen the crisis.
Unfulfilled Assurances
Hospital associations recalled that during earlier strikes governments had assured clearance of dues. However, they said the promises were not honoured even after eight months. They have demanded revision of treatment package rates and a green channel mechanism for payments. Without such measures, hospitals maintain they have no choice but to suspend services.
Governments Yet to Respond
Despite the growing concern, governments of both States have not made any official announcement on how they plan to resolve the issue. Associations warn that unless the arrears are cleared promptly, the healthcare of thousands of poor patients will remain at risk.
