7th Pay Commission new benefit: This special facility cleared for Central government employees

7th Pay Commission: In yet another move that will benefit its staffers, government has cleared an order that will provide much-needed benefit, especially in times of emergencies. Centre has fulfilled the much-awaited demand of central government employees, giving relaxation in the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS). Under this provision, if CGHS members are going abroad for an extended journey, they will be entitled to get medicines of 6 months in advance. The Chief Medical Officer has been authorised to allow the same.

According to Union Health Ministry order, those central employees, who are covered under the CGHS, if stay abroad for 6 months, they will be entitled to get OPD medicines in advance so that they can carry them along. However, they need to carry some important documents including a copy of CGHS card, a 6-month doctor's letter, a flight ticket to abroad along with a copy of visa. 

Notably, the government has recently allowed the facility of free treatment to the central employees and their families in selected private hospitals. With the government consent to this plan, such employees are getting better health facility, as the number of central government employees and pensioners is around 1.1 crore. 

What is the scheme

In order to avail the benefit of this scheme, employees need to have CGHS card to get the facility of availing of free medical treatment in government hospitals. If they visit private hospitals, they will get a discount on fees.

Earlier, the employees used to take a number from dispensary counter, but the government has changed this system. Now, they are being provided CGHS plastic card to get medical treatment at any hospital in the country.

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If you are a central government employee, and don't have this card, you should apply through the CGHS website- cghs.gov.in. You need to submit some documents online. After one month of filling the online form, your plastic card will reach your residence. The portal also facilitates you to renew your card.