Published Paper Details:

Access to healthcare is a critical determinant of societal well-being, especially in populous and economically diverse countries like India. This study investigates the beneficiary experiences of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) in Punjab, focusing on awareness levels, usage trends, and sources of information. With India surpassing China as the world's most populous country, healthcare challenges, particularly among the economically disadvantaged, have become more pressing. Utilizing a cross-sectional survey conducted among 576 beneficiaries in Ludhiana and Mansa districts, the research employs random sampling and structured questionnaires to evaluate awareness, enrolment, and service utilization under AB-PMJAY. The findings reveal that 37% of beneficiaries have low awareness, 43% moderate, and 19% high awareness, with information predominantly obtained from government campaigns, healthcare providers, and word-of-mouth. Enrolment in the scheme stands at 41%, with 12% of enrolled beneficiaries utilizing services, primarily for hospitalization. Key barriers to utilization include cost concerns and insufficient awareness. Statistical analysis identifies significant correlations between demographic factors, such as education and income, and levels of awareness and utilization. The study underscores the necessity for targeted awareness campaigns and enhanced accessibility to optimize the scheme's impact. Policy recommendations highlight the importance of community-based platforms and tailored communication strategies to bridge existing gaps, ensuring equitable healthcare access for all vulnerable populations.