ECHS inputs

We have received a large number of feedback/ problems being faced by ex serviceman on ECHS. The Secretary RDOA had a meeting/ discussion with the MD ECHS on 25 Jan 08 on the issues involved. Clarifications are given as follows. Members are requested to disseminate the info for the benefit of ex serviceman/ fellow members.

The ECHS is under the MOD and not under the Ministry of Health.

Empanelment of Hospitals. The proposed revised rates were given by the DG Health Services for CGHS which have to be made applicable to ECHS also. These rates are unrealistic. A presentation has already been given by the MD ECHS to the Raksha Mantri on the rates position. A decision is expected soon. In the meantime hospitals have been requested to treat terminally ill patients at the previous rates till such time the new rates are given a fresh look for implementation. Case is on priority resolution. RDOA will also be requesting the Hon’ble Raksha Mantriji to resolve the issue at the earliest.

Issue of Death Certificate. Instructions are under issue to the polyclinics to issue death certificate in the event a patient dies in the polyclinic and avoid unnecessary harassment to families of ex serviceman as has happened in a few reported cases.

Decentralization of financial powers for treatment. Regional ECHS have been empowered to undertake expenditure upto 5 lakhs on a patient and there is no need to seek permission from Delhi. Patients should prevail upon the regional ECHS to accord permission. Feedback be given in case regional ECHS do not exercise their financial powers.

Acquisition of land for polyclinics is under the jurisdiction of the dependent Stn HQ/ Sub Area/Area HQ. ECHS only makes final payment for the land acquired as per the policy guidelines.

Gen Roy Chowdhury Committee. No such committee has been appointed to go into the rates revision for empanelled hospitals and it is only Langar Gup. Issues relating to change of policies will be exclusively dealt by the MD ECHS. Implementation of policies has been delegated to regional ECHS and downwards to the polyclinics.

All pre 1996 retirees have to become members of ECHS before 01 Apr 2008 to avail medical facilities/ treatment. No contributory charges will be taken from them as per decision of the Hon’ble Supreme Court. All are requested to keep giving more feedback in the larger interest and functioning of the ECHS. We should make it a model scheme for others to follow. Cases of malpractices/ corruption in according referrals be brought to our notice and the MD ECHS. Should not be on ‘hearsay’.

Proposal for ‘Unified Approach’ to resolve issues affecting all ‘Veterans’.
We are planning a seminar in the month of April/ May to give shape to a ‘Unified Approach’ with a representation from all the associations/ leagues/ clubs existing throughout the length/ breadth of the country to bring them under one umbrella to represent the ‘Veterans’ with a longer perspective. Presently we are working in splinter groups which is to our disadvantage. Members are requested to fwd the names of such organizations functioning within their States/ areas along with the names of the President & Secretary and their tele nos. Alternately they may be requested to contact RDOA directly through email/ mobile. The RDOA will function as the backbone of such an org with a membership of over 1200 officers.

PT Gangadharan
Brig (Retd)
Note: Letter received from RDOA