Arogya Karnataka (AB-ArK) Empanelled Hospitals in Bengaluru

The Ayushman Bharat – Arogya Karnataka (AB-ArK) scheme is a significant public health initiative by the Government of Karnataka, designed to provide comprehensive medical coverage to the state's residents. It functions by integrating the state's health programs with the central government's Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY). Managed by the Suvarna Arogya Suraksha Trust (SAST), the scheme aims to offer universal health coverage, ensuring that every citizen has access to necessary healthcare services without facing financial hardship.

This integrated scheme covers a wide range of medical needs, from primary care to specified secondary and tertiary treatments. By converging several previous state health initiatives, AB-ArK creates a unified platform for beneficiaries to access cashless treatment at a network of public and private empanelled hospitals. The primary goal is to reduce out-of-pocket expenditure on health, which is a major burden for many families, especially when dealing with major illnesses and hospitalizations.

For residents of Bengaluru, knowing which hospitals are part of this network is crucial for accessing timely medical care. This page provides a detailed list of hospitals in the Bengaluru Urban district that are empanelled under the Arogya Karnataka scheme. It also offers essential information on how to use the scheme, the documents you will need, and what to do if you encounter any issues, helping you navigate the system with confidence.

Empanelled Hospitals in Bengaluru under AB-ArK

This list includes both government and private hospitals. Please note that hospital empanelment status can change. It is advisable to verify with the hospital or the scheme's helpline before your visit.

• Victoria Hospital — Fort, K.R. Road
• Bowring and Lady Curzon Hospital — Shivajinagar
• Vani Vilas Hospital — K.R. Road, Fort
• Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health — Jayanagar
• K.C. General Hospital — Malleswaram
• Jayanagar General Hospital — Jayanagar 4th 'T' Block
• Epidemic Diseases Hospital — Old Madras Road
• Jaga Jeevan Ram Nagar Referral Hospital — J.J. Nagar
• Srirampura Referral Hospital — Srirampuram
• Narayana Hrudayalaya Private Limited — Bommasandra
• St. John's Medical College Hospital — Koramangala
• M.S. Ramaiah Hospital — MSR Nagar
• Kempegowda Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS) — V.V. Puram
• Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Medical College and Hospital — Kadugondanahalli
• Apollo Speciality Hospital — Jayanagar
• Sagar Hospitals — Jayanagar
• Rajarajeswari Medical College and Hospital — Kambipura, Mysore Road
• Bhagwan Mahaveer Jain Hospital — Millers Road, Vasanthnagar
• Bangalore Baptist Hospital — Bellary Road, Hebbal
• Fortis Hospital — Cunningham Road
• Healthcare Global Enterprises Ltd (HCG) — Double Road
• BGS Gleneagles Global Hospitals — Kengeri
• NU Hospitals Pvt Ltd — Padmanabhanagar
• Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital — Rajajinagar
• Samprathi Eye Hospital & Squint Centre — Multiple Locations

Rates shown are as per the Suvarna Arogya Suraksha Trust, Govt. of Karnataka (2024) and are subject to periodic revision. Always verify the latest approved rates on the official source.

Understanding the AB-ArK Scheme in Bengaluru

The Ayushman Bharat - Arogya Karnataka scheme categorizes all residents of Karnataka into two groups: 'Eligible Beneficiaries' and 'General Beneficiaries'. Eligible Beneficiaries are families identified by the National Food Security Act, 2013, who are automatically enrolled in the scheme. They are entitled to cashless benefits up to ₹5 lakh per family per year for specified tertiary care. All other residents are considered General Beneficiaries. They can also avail benefits but typically on a co-payment basis, with the government covering a portion of the package rates for specified treatments.

The scheme is designed to provide a continuum of care. For most non-emergency procedures, a beneficiary must first visit a public health institution. If the required treatment is not available there, the patient is referred to an empanelled private hospital. This referral system ensures that public health infrastructure is utilized effectively while providing a pathway to private healthcare when necessary. Each empanelled hospital has a dedicated 'Arogya Mitra' help desk to assist patients with the scheme's procedures, from verification to admission and discharge.

How to Avail Treatment at an Empanelled Hospital

To receive treatment under the AB-ArK scheme, the first step for a beneficiary is typically to visit a nearby government hospital or public health center. A doctor there will assess your condition. If the necessary treatment is unavailable at the public facility, you will be issued a referral letter to a specific empanelled private hospital that can provide the required care. This referral is mandatory for planned treatments at most private hospitals.

Upon reaching the empanelled hospital (either directly in an emergency or with a referral), you must visit the Arogya Mitra kiosk. The Arogya Mitra will verify your identity using your AB-ArK card and Aadhaar number. Once your eligibility is confirmed, the hospital will initiate the pre-authorization process with the Suvarna Arogya Suraksha Trust (SAST) for the required medical procedure. The treatment is cashless, meaning the hospital bills the trust directly for the approved package amount.

A special provision exists for four private medical colleges in Bengaluru where patients can receive treatment at government-prescribed rates without a prior referral from a government hospital. This arrangement makes access easier for patients who choose these specific institutions.

• St. John's Medical College Hospital
• M.S. Ramaiah Hospital
• Kempegowda Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS)
• Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Medical College and Hospital

Documents Required for AB-ArK Scheme

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free process at the hospital, it is important to carry the correct documents. The primary document is the Ayushman Bharat - Arogya Karnataka (AB-ArK) Health Card. This card contains your unique identification number and confirms your enrollment in the scheme. Without this card, verifying your eligibility can be difficult.

In addition to the AB-ArK card, you must present a valid government-issued photo ID for identity verification. The Aadhaar card is the most widely accepted and preferred document. For beneficiaries seeking treatment at a private hospital for a non-emergency procedure, the referral letter from the government hospital is a critical document that must be submitted.

• Ayushman Bharat - Arogya Karnataka (AB-ArK) Card
• Aadhaar Card for patient identification
• Referral letter from a government hospital (if applicable)
• Ration Card (may be required for certain beneficiary categories)

Checking if a Hospital is Still Empanelled

The list of hospitals empanelled under the Arogya Karnataka scheme is subject to change. Hospitals may be added to the network, or in some cases, removed. Therefore, before proceeding to a hospital for treatment, it is always a good practice to verify its current empanelment status. Relying on outdated lists can lead to confusion and denial of cashless benefits.

The most reliable source for the latest information is the official Arogya Karnataka portal maintained by the Suvarna Arogya Suraksha Trust. The portal often has a search feature or an updated list of network hospitals. Alternatively, you can call the scheme's toll-free helpline number to confirm if a particular hospital in Bengaluru is actively providing services under the AB-ArK scheme. The Arogya Mitra at any public hospital can also provide current information.

What to Do if a Hospital Refuses Cashless Service

If an empanelled hospital refuses to provide cashless treatment or demands payment for procedures covered under the AB-ArK scheme, you should not make any payments. The scheme is designed to be cashless for the beneficiary for all approved package treatments. The first point of contact in such a situation should be the Arogya Mitra at the hospital. They are trained to resolve such issues and facilitate the process.

If the Arogya Mitra is unable to resolve the problem, you should immediately escalate the matter by contacting the official AB-ArK helpline. You can register a grievance against the hospital. Provide all details, including the hospital name, the patient's details, and the treatment required. The Suvarna Arogya Suraksha Trust (SAST) has a grievance redressal mechanism to address complaints from beneficiaries and take action against hospitals that do not comply with the scheme's guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Ayushman Bharat - Arogya Karnataka (AB-ArK) scheme?

It is a health insurance scheme by the Karnataka government, integrated with the national PM-JAY program. It provides cashless healthcare services for primary, specified secondary, and tertiary treatments to all residents of the state through a network of empanelled hospitals.

Do I need a referral to get treatment at a private hospital in Bengaluru?

Generally, yes. For most planned treatments at a private hospital, you need a referral from a government health facility. However, there is a special arrangement with St. John's Hospital, Ramaiah Memorial Hospital, KIMS, and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Medical College and Hospital, which do not require this referral.

Are all treatments covered under the AB-ArK scheme?

No, the scheme covers a pre-defined list of medical and surgical packages for secondary and tertiary care. Elective procedures, cosmetic surgeries, and treatments not on the approved list are generally not covered. Always confirm coverage with the Arogya Mitra at the hospital.

What should I do if an empanelled hospital asks me to pay for a covered treatment?

You should not pay for any treatment that is covered under the scheme's approved packages. Immediately report the incident to the hospital's Arogya Mitra or contact the AB-ArK grievance redressal helpline to file a complaint against the hospital.

How can I find the most current list of empanelled hospitals in Bengaluru?

The list of empanelled hospitals can change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, you should visit the official Arogya Karnataka website (arogya.karnataka.gov.in) or call the scheme's toll-free helpline number before planning your visit.

Who is the 'Arogya Mitra' and what is their role?

The Arogya Mitra is a scheme-appointed representative stationed at a help desk in every empanelled hospital. Their role is to assist beneficiaries with all scheme-related processes, including eligibility verification, document checks, pre-authorization, and addressing any issues faced by the patient.

Related

• Arogya Karnataka in Karnataka: eligibility and how to enrol
• Government hospital OPD appointment guides in Karnataka
• Mukhyamantri Swasthya Bima Yojana: which state scheme is it?

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.