WASHINGTON: A US-based non-profit on Saturday announced an initiative to enhance healthcare access for individuals with intellectual disabilities, with an aim to benefit 10,000 people in India in the first year. VOSAP is a leading disability sector NGO, having enabled more than 25,000 persons with disabilities since 2017 by providing assistive devices, surgical interventions and scholarships. The Niramaya scheme offers up to Rs 1 lakh insurance reimbursement for covered medical expenses for individuals with intellectual disabilities. A joint research conducted by VOSAP and Parivaar NCPO revealed significant underutilisation of the scheme due to challenges in online enrollment, understanding benefits and navigating the complicated claim process, the statement said. In 2022-23, according to a government of India report, only 28,323 claims -- out of 1,87,290 (1.87 lakh) enrolled beneficiaries -- with an average of Rs 6,405 per claim were settled.

Source: Indian Express June 02, 2024 04:07 UTC