ECHS Rates Explained: How Ex-Servicemen Health Scheme Reimbursement Works
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nikhil Singh
Last reviewed: 18 Jul 2026
The Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) provides medical care to ex-servicemen pensioners and their dependants. ECHS is structured on the lines of CGHS, and a common question is what rates it pays.
How ECHS Rates Work
ECHS does not maintain a separate rate card. It pays empanelled hospitals at the prevailing CGHS package rates. For emergency treatment at non-empanelled private hospitals, reimbursement is restricted to the CGHS package rate or the actual expenditure, whichever is less.
Eligibility and Referrals
ECHS covers ex-servicemen pensioners (including disability pensioners) and dependants such as spouse, eligible dependent children and wholly-dependent parents. Outpatient care is delivered through a nationwide network of ECHS polyclinics, and specialist or hospital care works on a referral model from the polyclinic to an empanelled or service hospital.
- Empanelled hospital reimbursement follows CGHS rates
- Polyclinics provide OPD care and issue referrals for specialist care
- Emergency at non-empanelled hospitals: CGHS rate or actual, whichever is less
Frequently Asked Questions
What rates does ECHS pay?
ECHS reimburses empanelled hospitals at the prevailing CGHS package rates; it does not have a separate rate list of its own.
Who is eligible for ECHS?
Ex-servicemen pensioners (including disability pensioners) and their eligible dependants such as spouse, dependent children and wholly-dependent parents.
Related
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.
Related reading
Top doctors on Zospital
Verified specialists you can book in minutes.
Have More Questions?
Find quick answers to common questions about our services, appointments, and patient care.
ECHS reimburses empanelled hospitals at the prevailing CGHS package rates; it does not have a separate rate list of its own.
Ex-servicemen pensioners (including disability pensioners) and their eligible dependants such as spouse, dependent children and wholly-dependent parents.
Related Articles
Ectopic Pregnancy: Early Signs You Shouldn't Ignore
A positive pregnancy test is usually a time of joy, but what if you experience confusing symptoms like pain or bleeding? Learn the early signs of an ectopic pregnancy that need urgent attention.
Egg Freezing in India: Who Should Consider It and When
Are you thinking about your future family but the timing isn't right? An experienced doctor explains egg freezing in India, a way to preserve your fertility for later.
Is It Just Period Pain, Or Endometriosis?
Stop dismissing your severe monthly pain. Understand the real symptoms of endometriosis and why 'just bearing it' is the wrong advice for this condition.
Written by Dr. Nikhil Singh
Last reviewed: 18 July 2026
Medical Disclaimer
The content provided on Zospital 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 on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.
Are you a doctor or run a clinic or hospital?
Patients across India are searching Zospital right now. Get a free profile with reviews, timings and direct WhatsApp bookings.