Healthcare – Delhi Revises DAK Scheme Rules to Improve Public Treatment Access
Healthcare – The Delhi government has introduced a fresh set of operational guidelines under the Delhi Arogya Kosh (DAK) scheme to improve the functioning of healthcare services and ensure better use of medical infrastructure available in the capital. The revised framework focuses on increasing transparency, reducing unnecessary referrals, and making treatment support more efficient for economically weaker patients.
Focus on Better Use of Available Hospital Resources
According to the updated directions issued by the Directorate General of Health Services under the Delhi Arogya Kosh unit, authorities must now first verify the availability of free beds reserved for Economically Weaker Section (EWS) patients in identified private hospitals before sending patients there for planned surgeries or medical treatment.
The move is aimed at ensuring that government-supported healthcare resources are fully utilised before additional referrals are approved. Officials believe this step will help improve access to treatment while avoiding unnecessary pressure on healthcare funding.
New Conditions for Imaging Service Referrals
The revised rules also bring important changes to referrals for imaging and diagnostic services covered under the DAK scheme. Under the new system, patients can only be referred outside government hospitals if the required imaging facility is unavailable within the public healthcare network or if the service cannot be provided within three days.
Health authorities say this change is intended to strengthen the use of diagnostic facilities already available in government institutions and reduce avoidable dependence on private centres.
Verification of Existing Medical Coverage Made Mandatory
Another major change introduced under the updated policy is compulsory verification of a patient’s existing healthcare coverage before any referral is approved through the DAK scheme.
Officials stated that patients will now need to provide a self-declaration confirming whether they are already receiving benefits through schemes such as the Delhi Government Employees Health Scheme (DGEHS), Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), or any private insurance plan.
The purpose of this measure is to improve coordination between healthcare schemes and prevent duplication of benefits. Authorities believe it will also help ensure that government assistance reaches patients who genuinely require financial support for treatment.
Health Minister Highlights Accountability and Transparency
Delhi Health Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh said the government is working towards creating a healthcare system that is more transparent, efficient, and focused on patient welfare.
He stated that the revised directives are designed to ensure careful use of public healthcare resources while maintaining uninterrupted treatment for deserving beneficiaries. The minister also noted that stronger referral procedures and improved monitoring mechanisms would contribute to better healthcare governance across Delhi.
Strict Compliance Ordered Across Healthcare Institutions
The Health Department has instructed all concerned hospitals and authorities to implement the revised guidelines without delay. Officials warned that any failure to follow the updated framework would be treated seriously.
The government expects the new directives to strengthen healthcare delivery for low-income patients while improving administrative efficiency within the DAK scheme. The revised measures are also seen as part of a broader effort to modernise healthcare management and improve accountability across Delhi’s public health system.