The government recently launched the PM Rahat Scheme, which stands for PM Rahat (Road Accident Victim Hospitalization and Assured Treatment). This scheme was launched to provide immediate treatment to those injured in road accidents. It was created to ensure that no one loses their life due to a lack of funds. Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved this scheme as his first decision after moving into the new PMO building, "Seva Teerth."

This scheme was launched last week and aims to provide treatment within the golden hour, i.e., the first hour of an accident. Reports suggest that half of road accident deaths can be prevented if the victim is rushed to the hospital within the first hour. Under this scheme, every road accident victim, whether on a national highway, a state road, or a city street, can receive cashless treatment.

What benefits will be available?
Under this scheme, treatment up to a maximum of ₹1.5 lakh will be available free of charge. This coverage will last for seven days from the date of the accident. If the accident is not life-threatening, stabilization treatment will be provided for 24 hours. If the accident is life-threatening, it will be provided for 48 hours. Police confirmation is required for treatment, which is obtained through an integrated digital system. This confirmation must be obtained within 24 hours for non-life-threatening cases and within 48 hours for life-threatening cases.

In the event of an accident, victims, passers-by, or anyone present at the scene should call 112. This is an emergency response support system that provides information about the nearest designated hospital and can also call an ambulance. Treatment will begin upon arrival at the hospital.

This scheme is jointly run by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and the National Health Authority. The hospital receives treatment funds from the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund. If the vehicle is insured, it comes from general insurance companies; if not, or in a hit-and-run case, it comes from the government budget. Once the claim is approved, the State Health Agency will disburse the funds to the hospital within 10 days.

What is the entire process?
This entire process is digital. Accident reports are linked to the eDAR platform and the hospital's Claim Transaction Management System 2.0. This makes everything fast and transparent. If you have a complaint, you can contact the Grievance Redressal Officer through the Chairman of the District Road Safety Committee, i.e., the District Collector or Magistrate.

This scheme is a huge relief for Indians, as thousands of road accidents occur every year, and treatment is often delayed due to a lack of funds. Now, hospitals will provide treatment without worrying about money, and the government will pay. This will ensure treatment is available in the golden hour and save lives. If you or someone you know is involved in an accident, dial 112 first, reach the hospital, and receive treatment. This scheme applies to all road users, regardless of their age.

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