Andhra Pradesh Universal Health Policy (Ayushman Bharat - Dr. NTR Vaidya Seva): A Guide

The Government of Andhra Pradesh has introduced a Universal Health Policy, a significant initiative aimed at providing extensive health coverage to all residents of the state. This policy integrates the central government's Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) with the state's own health scheme, now co-branded as "Ayushman Bharat - Dr. NTR Vaidya Seva".

A key feature of this policy is the enhanced coverage of up to ₹25 lakh per family per year for medical treatments. The scheme has a history of evolving names; it was previously known as Dr. YSR Aarogyasri, and before that, Dr. NTR Vaidya Seva. The recent policy decisions have brought the Dr. NTR Vaidya Seva name back into the integrated branding.

This guide provides comprehensive information on the scheme's benefits, eligibility criteria, the process for enrolment, its relationship with PM-JAY, and how to avail cashless treatment at network hospitals across Andhra Pradesh.

AP Universal Health Policy at a Glance

• Scheme Name — Universal Health Policy (co-branded as Ayushman Bharat - Dr. NTR Vaidya Seva)
• Coverage Amount — Up to ₹25 lakh per family per year
• Launch of Enhanced ₹25 Lakh Coverage — December 18, 2023
• Full Universal Policy Implementation — Scheduled from April 1, 2026
• Implementing Agency — Dr. NTR Vaidya Seva Trust
• General Health Helpline — 104

Rates shown are as per the Dr. YSR Aarogyasri Health Care Trust Portal (2025) and are subject to periodic revision. Always verify the latest approved rates on the official source.

What is Covered Under the AP Universal Health Policy?

The Universal Health Policy provides substantial financial protection against healthcare expenses. The primary benefit is the provision of cashless services for a wide array of medical procedures.

The scheme offers coverage of up to ₹25 lakh per family for every policy year. This enhancement was approved in late 2023. The policy covers a total of 3,257 medical and surgical procedures across various specialties. This includes treatments for critical illnesses that often require costly care, such as:

All services for these covered treatments, from diagnosis to post-hospitalisation care, are provided on a cashless basis at empanelled hospitals. This means the beneficiary does not need to pay out-of-pocket for the treatment; the hospital bill is settled directly by the Dr. NTR Vaidya Seva Trust and the associated insurance company.

• Cardiac diseases
• Cancer treatments
• Kidney ailments
• Neurological disorders
• General surgery
• Orthopedics
• Ophthalmology

Who is Eligible for the Scheme?

A key objective of the new policy, approved in September 2025, is to provide universal health coverage to all residents of Andhra Pradesh. This marks a shift from previous policies that were focused mainly on families below the poverty line.

The eligibility criteria include:

It is important to note that government employees and pensioners who are covered under the separate Employee Health Scheme (EHS) are excluded from this policy.

• **Residency:** All applicants must be residents of Andhra Pradesh.
• **Low-Income Families:** The primary beneficiaries remain families with an annual income of up to ₹5 lakh. Other criteria for this group include holding a White Ration Card and owning less than 35 acres of land.
• **Above Poverty Line (APL) Families:** The new policy extends coverage to APL families as well. While the aim is universal inclusion, one source indicates that the coverage structure for APL families might differ, potentially ranging from ₹2 lakh to ₹5 lakh. The exact details are expected to be clarified as the scheme is implemented.

How to Enrol and Get the Health Card

To avail the benefits, eligible families must be enrolled in the scheme and possess a health card. The process for the newly expanded universal policy is still being finalised.

Under the previous Dr. YSR Aarogyasri scheme, enrolment could be completed through multiple channels. An online process was available via the Navasakam or Grama Ward Sachivalayam portals. An offline method was also in place, where individuals could visit network hospitals or designated kiosks to get assistance from an "Aarogya Mithra" (a scheme facilitator).

For the new universal policy, specific enrolment steps, particularly for newly eligible APL families, have not yet been made publicly available. It is advisable to check the official Dr. YSR Aarogyasri portal for updates on the application process.

The documents required for enrolment have historically been based on income category:

Upon successful enrolment, beneficiaries are issued a health card, which may be referred to as the YSR Aarogyasri Card or the Dr. NTR Vaidya Seva Health Card. This card contains a unique identification number and must be presented at the hospital to receive cashless services. Beneficiaries are also encouraged to link their card with their Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) ID for seamless access to health records.

• **For BPL/Low-Income Families:** Aadhaar Card, White Ration Card (or a BPL certificate), and an income certificate were the main documents.
• **For APL Families:** A definitive list of required documents for APL families under the new universal scheme is not yet available. An Aadhaar card is expected to be a primary requirement.

Integration with Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY)

The Andhra Pradesh health scheme is now fully integrated with the national Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY program. This integration is reflected in its co-branded name, "Ayushman Bharat - Dr. NTR Vaidya Seva". This collaboration allows the state to leverage central government funding while extending benefits beyond the national scheme's limits.

The scheme operates on a hybrid funding model. For beneficiaries who fall under the PM-JAY criteria (typically BPL families), the central government contributes its 60% share for claims. An insurance company handles medical claims up to ₹2.5 lakh. For expenses that exceed ₹2.5 lakh and go up to the full ₹25 lakh limit, the Dr. NTR Vaidya Seva Trust bears the cost. This structure ensures comprehensive coverage for high-cost treatments.

Using the Scheme at Government and Private Hospitals

Beneficiaries can avail cashless treatment at a network of 2,493 empanelled government and private hospitals within Andhra Pradesh. To use the scheme, the beneficiary must present their health card at one of these network hospitals.

To assist patients, "Vaidya Mithra" help desks are established in all network hospitals. These representatives help with the verification process, answer queries, and guide patients through the necessary steps to avail cashless treatment.

For any planned surgical or medical procedure, the hospital is required to obtain pre-authorization from the trust. Under the new policy, this approval process has been streamlined, with a target timeline of six hours for a decision. This ensures that treatment is not delayed due to administrative procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the new name of the health scheme in Andhra Pradesh?

The scheme is now called the Universal Health Policy. It is co-branded as "Ayushman Bharat - Dr. NTR Vaidya Seva," integrating the state scheme with the national PM-JAY program. It was formerly known as Dr. YSR Aarogyasri.

How much coverage does the AP health scheme provide?

The scheme provides health coverage of up to ₹25 lakh per family per year for a list of 3,257 specified medical and surgical procedures.

Is the scheme only for BPL families?

No, the new policy aims for universal coverage, meaning it is intended for all residents of Andhra Pradesh, including Above Poverty Line (APL) families. The primary focus remains on families with an annual income up to ₹5 lakh, but APL families are also included.

How do I get a health card for the scheme?

The specific enrollment process for the new universal policy is not yet fully detailed. Previously, it involved applying online via the Navasakam portal or offline with the help of an Aarogya Mithra. You will likely need documents like an Aadhaar card and an income certificate. Please check the official website for the latest updates.

Do I have to pay anything at the hospital for treatment?

For the 3,257 treatments covered under the scheme, you do not have to pay at an empanelled hospital. The scheme provides end-to-end cashless services, and the hospital settles the bill directly with the trust and insurance company.

What should I do if I need help with the scheme's process at the hospital?

All network hospitals have a "Vaidya Mithra" help desk. You can approach the Vaidya Mithra for assistance with card verification, pre-authorization, and any other queries related to the scheme.

Related

• Government hospital OPD guides in Andhra Pradesh
• How to find an Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) hospital near you
• Government health schemes in India: a guide
• Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY eligibility check

Medical Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.