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The Central Government has made major changes in the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) after many years, which will be implemented from October 13, 2025. The aim of these reforms is to make health services more easy, transparent and reliable. Lakhs of central employees and pensioners will get direct benefits from these changes. Come, let us know what these new changes are and how they will make your life easier.

Why was there a need for change in CGHS?

For the last several years, those getting treatment under CGHS were facing many problems. Due to lack of cashless treatment facility, reluctance of hospitals, delay in payment and old package rates, patients had to spend from their own pockets. Many times there was delay in refund and it became difficult to get treatment in emergency. In August 2025, the employee union GENC raised these problems loudly with the government. After this, the Health Ministry decided to make major changes in this scheme after 15 years.

What are the new changes?

Improvement in medical package rates

Now new rates have been fixed for about 2,000 medical procedures. These rates will vary depending on the category and city of the hospital. Rates in Tier-2 cities will be 19% less than the base rate, while in Tier-3 cities they will be 20% less. Base rates will be applicable in NABH accredited hospitals, but rates will be 15% lower in non-NABH hospitals. Rates will be 15% higher in super-specialty hospitals with more than 200 beds. This will bring transparency in the treatment expenses.

Scope of cashless treatment increased

Now more and more private hospitals have joined CGHS and are ready to provide cashless treatment facilities. This means that now patients will not have to spend money from their own pocket. This facility will provide great relief especially in emergency.

Transgender dependents also benefit

Under the new rules that came on 16 September 2025, now transgender children and siblings, who are financially dependent and certified under the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, will also get the facilities of CGHS. This step is a major change towards inclusive healthcare services.

Ease of technological improvements

The online portal and mobile app of CGHS has now become better. Now treatment approval will be given faster through online referral system. Real-time tracking of medicines has started, so that patients will get medicines on time. A special helpdesk has been created especially for senior citizens, so that their problems can be resolved immediately.

Who can avail the benefits of CGHS?

CGHS facility will be available to central employees (except Railways and Delhi Administration) and their dependents. Apart from this, central pensioners (except Railways and Armed Forces) can also avail the benefits of this scheme. This facility is available in 80 cities where CGHS services are available.

How to make CGHS card?

Employees can apply in their department with prescribed form and family photo. Pensioners can download the form from the official website of CGHS (cghs.gov.in) and submit it to the office of the Additional Director. If the PPO number is not yet received, then a temporary card can be made on the basis of Last Pay Certificate.