The Kerala government has approved the implementation of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) to provide healthcare protection to every section of society. The initiative aims to ensure that no family in the state remains without access to medical support.
The new programme has been designed to cover people who are currently not included in existing government health schemes. These include the Karunya Arogya Suraksha Padhathi, Karunya Benevolent Fund, MEDISEP, and other health insurance initiatives.
‘Health Protection for All’ Initiative
- The new project, titled “Health Protection for All,” was developed after extensive discussions and studies conducted over the past year.
- The move was taken under the guidance of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
- The proposal was also reviewed during the Vision 2031 meetings of the state government.
- The scheme will bring significant relief to lakhs of families who are currently not part of any treatment assistance programme.
Growth in Health Coverage Over the Years
- According to the health minister, about a decade ago the state government provided treatment assistance of only ₹30,000, and the benefit was limited to around 40,000 families.
- However, the situation has improved significantly over the years.
- Under the Karunya Arogya Suraksha Padhathi (KASP), eligible families can now receive treatment coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per year. At present, nearly 42 lakh families in the state hold KASP cards.
Support for Low-Income Families
- Families that are not covered under KASP but have an annual income below ₹3 lakh are eligible for treatment assistance under the Karunya Benevolent Fund.
- Under this scheme, beneficiaries can receive up to ₹2 lakh for medical treatment.
- Additionally, patients suffering from kidney-related diseases are eligible for an extra assistance of ₹1 lakh.
Background of the Scheme
- The Karunya Arogya Suraksha Padhathi was first introduced by the state government in 2019 to expand healthcare access for economically weaker sections.
- The proposal for comprehensive health protection was later prepared by the Health Department in 2025 after detailed studies and consultations.
- In November, a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan approved moving forward with the project.
- The Universal Health Coverage initiative was also formally announced in the state Budget this year, marking a major step toward strengthening public healthcare in the state.