Impact Assessment of AB-PMJAY Scheme in Gujarat : An Analysis of Beneficiaries Profiles and Healthcare Utilization

Background: The AB-PMJAY Scheme is designed to provide health coverage for more than 50 crore eligible individuals. AB-PMJAY is India's government-funded health protection program that covers more than 13.44 crore poor and vulnerable families of 65 crores potential beneficiaries of the scheme all over India. Awareness is crucial for ensuring enrolment and utilization of any medical protection program. Given that AB-PMJAY is a newly implemented scheme, there are finite research on the level of awareness, enrolment, and utilization of the scheme, as well as the sources of information and support available to beneficiaries in Gujarat. Therefore, this study aims to assess the current status of awareness of AB-PMJAY in Gujarat. Methods: This cross-sectional study employed a multi-stage sampling method across both rural and urban areas, randomly selecting a total of 400 households from three districts in Gujarat. Data was collected using a structured interview schedule. A simple random sampling approach was used to select households, achieving a sample size of 400. Sampling for the test, the chosen city's population was categorized as 40% urban and 60% rural. Study period: The data collection process involved a household survey conducted over a three-month timeframe, extending from November 2023 through January 2024. Results: The AB-PMJAY scheme is well-known in Gujarat, with awareness levels at 44.75% for high, 30.75% for moderate, and 24.50% for low. Among 400 surveyed households, 92.5% possessed AB-PMJAY cards, with a 52.16% utilization rate. Awareness factors include living area, education, gender, religion, and caste. Despite having benefits, 22.9% of respondents incurred out-of-pocket (OOP) expenses, and 11.25% did not use their AB-PMJAY cards when needed. Significant contributors to spreading awareness about the scheme include IEC, television, and community workers like Asha Workers, Ayushman Mitras, Anganwadi Workers, Healthcare Workers, and Sarpanch’. Conclusions: The reported utilization rate in this study was only 52.16%, despite having impressive awareness and enrolment rates. Information gathered from three districts shows an increase in people's familiarity with the AB-PMJAY scheme. Overall, awareness of various aspects of AB-PMJAY among participants was higher and more consistent compared to 2020. Additionally, the utilization rate among beneficiaries is average and out-of-pocket (OOP) payments remain common.