New CGHS rule: Central govt employees can contribute to CGHS only through the official website

In an important development for central government employees, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has introduced an enhanced version of the Health Management Information System (HMIS), which lets individuals access the services provided by the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS).

Previously, central government pensioners used the Bharat Kosh portal to make payments for their CGHS subscription, renewal, or to apply for a CGHS card.

The change has made the payment process more convenient and transparent, replacing the manual system with a technology-based one.

The ministry has also reintroduced the CGHS mobile applications for Android and iOS with improved services and an upgraded interface.

“The transformation is being implemented in view of the technical obsolescence of the existing CGHS software, which has been in use since 2005, and lacks compatibility with modern IT standards, cybersecurity frameworks, and user expectations. The revamped HMIS will enable faster, more transparent, and user-friendly access to CGHS services,” the Health Ministry said.

The CGHS Digital Health Platform software was developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC).

Under the upgraded software, the health ministry has launched PAN-based identification of beneficiaries, along with real-time tracking and automated payment verification.

To ensure a seamless transition, all CGHS services were put on hold on April 26. This was done to ensure smooth data migration and other switch-over activities. Unpaid applications for CGHS services by April 27 lapsed after the new system came into force on April 28, and beneficiaries were required to submit fresh applications through the new portal.

New CGHS Digital Health Platform: Key details

• PAN-based identification: Beneficiaries will now have PAN-based unique identification, preventing duplication of records and enabling easier validation.

• CGHS contribution payments will now be auto-verified through direct integration (Line of Business Application Integration) with Bharat Kosh instead of the manual process on the portal. Elimination of manual data entry on the Bharat Kosh portal will prevent errors and refund requests.

• Beneficiaries can track their applications online in real-time, resulting in easier processing and a more transparent system. SMS and email alerts will be sent for the application process. Furthermore, all users will have to mandatorily reset their passwords when attempting to log in for the first time as a security measure.

• Card transfer, dependent addition, and card type change applications can now be done online.

• All existing data will be migrated securely, and there will be no loss of historical pharmacy records, referrals or card information.

Launched in 1954, the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) provides healthcare services to central government employees, pensioners, and other eligible individuals. It offers a wide range of medical services, including treatment, consultations, and medical investigations.