Swasthya Sathi WB: Health Insurance Scheme

Swasthya Sathi is a comprehensive health insurance scheme launched by the Government of West Bengal in 2016 under the Department of Health and Family Welfare. The scheme provides cashless health coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh per family per year to all residents of the state. It is one of the most inclusive health insurance schemes in India as it covers the entire family without any premium payment requirement for most beneficiaries.

Coverage and Benefits

The scheme covers over 7 crore beneficiaries across West Bengal. It provides cashless treatment for hospitalization, surgeries, diagnostic tests, medicines and follow-up care. The coverage includes both medical and surgical treatments for a wide range of diseases and conditions. Pre-existing diseases are covered from day one of the policy without any waiting period.

Eligibility Criteria

All residents of West Bengal are eligible for the scheme. The coverage extends to the entire family including the applicant, spouse, children and dependent parents. There is no income criterion or BPL requirement for eligibility. The scheme is open to all sections of society irrespective of their economic status.

How to Get the Card

Beneficiaries can visit the nearest Swasthya Sathi Kendra or any registered hospital with their Aadhaar card and residence proof. The application form is filled on the spot and the family health card is issued immediately. The card is valid for one year and needs to be renewed annually.

Network Hospitals

The scheme has a wide network of empaneled government and private hospitals across West Bengal and also in other states. Beneficiaries can get treatment at any network hospital by showing their Swasthya Sathi card. The list of network hospitals is available on the official website.

Documents Required

• Aadhaar Card of all family members
• Residence proof (voter ID, ration card or utility bill)
• Family photograph
• Mobile number