Referral Procedure for ECHS Empaneled Hospitals

The Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) is a vital initiative aimed at providing comprehensive healthcare to ex-servicemen and their dependents. To streamline medical care, the ECHS has established a referral procedure for treatment at empaneled hospitals. This ensures that beneficiaries receive timely and efficient healthcare services while maintaining proper documentation and approvals.

Step-by-Step Referral Process

Initial Consultation at ECHS Polyclinic

• Beneficiaries must first visit the nearest ECHS Polyclinic, where a medical officer will assess their health condition.
• If specialized treatment or hospitalization is required, the medical officer initiates a referral.

Issuance of Referral

• The medical officer generates a referral document, specifying the required treatment and the recommended empaneled hospital.
• The referral must be approved by the Officer-in-Charge of the ECHS Polyclinic.

Selection of Empaneled Hospital

• The referral is issued to an ECHS empaneled hospital based on the availability of services and location convenience.
• Beneficiaries cannot seek treatment at non-empaneled hospitals unless explicitly permitted in emergencies.

Seeking Treatment at the Empaneled Hospital

• The beneficiary presents the referral document and ECHS card at the selected empaneled hospital.
• The hospital verifies the referral and provides the prescribed treatment as per ECHS guidelines.

Billing and Approval

• The empaneled hospital submits the treatment details and cost to the ECHS for approval.
• The ECHS authority processes the claim and makes direct payments to the hospital as per the agreed rate structure.

Special Considerations

• Emergency Treatment: In case of life-threatening emergencies, beneficiaries can directly visit an empaneled hospital, but they must inform the ECHS Polyclinic within 24 hours for approval.
• Follow-Up Treatments: A fresh referral is required for any additional treatment beyond the initially approved services.
• Validity of Referral: The referral is valid for a limited period and must be utilized within the specified timeframe.

ECHS for Ex-Serviceman

The ECHS referral procedure is designed to ensure that ex-servicemen and their dependents receive specialized medical care in an organized manner. Adhering to these guidelines helps in seamless access to healthcare, timely treatment, and hassle-free billing. Beneficiaries are encouraged to stay informed about their rights and procedures to maximize the benefits of the ECHS scheme.

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