PM Modi Credits AB-PMJAY for Reducing Financial Burden on Cancer Patients

The scheme has played a pivotal role in ensuring timely cancer treatment, previously a barrier for many due to financial constraints.

In his 117th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat,’ Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized the significant progress made in India's fight against cancer, highlighting the role of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) in alleviating the financial challenges faced by cancer patients.

The scheme has played a pivotal role in ensuring timely cancer treatment, previously a barrier for many due to financial constraints.

PM Modi explained that AB-PMJAY has enabled 90% of cancer patients to start their treatment on time.

"Because of this scheme, 90 percent of cancer patients can start treatment on time. This has happened because earlier, due to lack of money, poor patients used to shy away from getting tested for cancer and its treatment. Now, the Ayushman Bharat Yojana has become a big support for them. Now they are coming forward to get themselves treated," Modi stated.

The Prime Minister noted that the financial support provided through the AB-PMJAY scheme has reduced the burden significantly for those who previously could not afford essential tests and treatment.

In addition to reducing costs, AB-PMJAY has also helped cancer patients receive timely care within 30 days, a crucial aspect of cancer treatment. Modi pointed to a study published in the Lancet Medical Journal, which reported an increase in cancer patients receiving timely treatment in India.

"The chances of starting cancer treatment in time in India have increased significantly," he said, underscoring the importance of such healthcare schemes in improving treatment outcomes.

Healthcare System Improvements

Modi’s comments reflect the increasing role of government initiatives and community involvement in tackling significant health challenges like cancer and malaria. The combination of AB-PMJAY’s financial support and proactive public health campaigns is helping to enhance India’s healthcare infrastructure, making treatment more accessible to underprivileged populations.

By ensuring that healthcare initiatives like AB-PMJAY continue to receive the necessary attention and resources, Prime Minister Modi’s government is working to address critical gaps in India’s healthcare system.

The success in the fight against malaria and cancer could be a model for other countries grappling with similar public health challenges.