Karunya Arogya Suraksha Padhathi (KASP)- Policy Insights, Benefits And More

In a world where access to quality healthcare often hinges on financial standing, millions of underprivileged individuals face a stark reality - the inability to afford life-saving medical treatment. A report by NITI Aayog says that 30% of the population don’t have any financial backing for healthcare treatment. Access to healthcare, a fundamental human right, remains a challenge for many due to rising medical costs. While health insurance offers a glimmer of hope, it's often unaffordable for economically disadvantaged sections.

This is where government healthcare initiatives like the Karunya Arogya Suraksha Padhathi (KASP) help revolutionise healthcare accessibility for all. Launched by the Kerala Government in 2012, KASP is working to defy the shadows of inequality in healthcare access.  

Let's delve into the details of this impactful scheme and how it is transforming healthcare access in the region!
 

What Is Karunya Arogya Suraksha Padhathi?

In 2012, the Kerala Government introduced the health insurance initiative KASP, short for Karunya Arogya Suraksha Padhathi. This health insurance program targets individuals facing financial challenges, providing coverage specifically for critical illnesses. Under this program, individuals enrolled in the scheme receive an annual coverage of Rs 5 lakh for hospitalisation, covering both secondary and tertiary care.

Now, let's explore the objectives of Karunya Insurance, outlining its mission to provide comprehensive coverage to all!

Objectives Of Karunya Insurance

So, let’s discuss the key objectives of the Karunya Insurance-

• Financial Assistance: It offers financial aid to individuals dealing with critical illnesses, assisting them in managing medical costs.
   
• Ensuring Quality Healthcare Access: The policy guarantees access to high-quality healthcare services for beneficiaries throughout Kerala.
   
• Supporting Healthcare Needs: It provides assistance to individuals and families grappling with the financial burden associated with critical illnesses.
   
• Comprehensive Coverage: The policy offers extensive coverage for various critical illnesses and medical treatments.
   
• Cost-Effectiveness: It ensures affordable healthcare access to the  economically disadvantaged sections of society - so they can concentrate on recovery without worrying about the cost
   

Key Features Of Karunya Arogya Suraksha Padhathi

Here are the highlighting features of the Karunya Health Insurance Scheme -

• Government-Funded Scheme
  The Karunya Health Insurance Scheme is funded by the government.
   
• Coverage Of Rs 5 Lakh
  This policy provides secondary and tertiary hospitalisation coverage, available in both public and private empanelled institutions, for an utmost of Rs 5 lakhs per household annually.
   
• Cashless Access To Medical Services
  Beneficiaries can enjoy cashless access to medical services at empanelled hospitals.
   
• Handles Medical Expenses
  This initiative seeks to alleviate the burden of exorbitant medical expenses.
   
• Inclusive Coverage
  There are no restrictions on the number of children in the family or on the age or gender of individuals who can be insured.
   
• Coverage From Day 1
  You can file claims for pre-existing diseases starting from day one of the policy's inception.
   
• Nationwide Accessibility
  The scheme is applicable nationwide, enabling you to access cashless care at any public or private hospital accredited under the program anywhere in India.
   
• Comprehensive Medical coverage
  The scheme encompasses approximately 1,573 medical procedures, and the coverage extends to all associated expenses, including medications, diagnostic services, surgical fees, OT, equipment, physician fees, accommodation, ICU charges, and more.
   

Other Benefits Of Karunya Arogya Suraksha Padhathi

In addition to the core features, the Karunya Health Insurance Scheme also provides several additional benefits -

• The government offers financial assistance of up to Rs. 2 lakh for specific illnesses, where the limit can increase to Rs. 3 lakh for more severe conditions.
• If the actual treatment costs for a critical illness surpass the initial estimate, beneficiaries are eligible for reimbursement.
• Each beneficiary can access treatment benefits for at least 5 family members via the scheme, and each member receives a special card for identification and accessing services.
   

Facilities Under Karunya Arogya Suraksha Padhathi

The Karunya Arogya Suraksha Padhathi offers an array of facilities aimed at delivering extensive health coverage for individuals grappling with critical illnesses. Here are some notable features of this health insurance scheme -

• Critical Illness Medical Coverage
  Karunya Arogya Suraksha Padhathi acts as a safety net for critical illnesses, ensuring that individuals with acute diseases can receive essential medical treatment.
   
• Financial Assistance
  Individuals who are enrolled in the program receive financial aid from the government, up to Rs 2 lakh, for the treatment of covered illnesses. In case of more severe situations, this amount may be raised to Rs 3 lakh.
   
• Reimbursement Of Expenses
  If the cost of treating a critical illness goes beyond the originally estimated amount, beneficiaries can apply for reimbursement to ensure extra financial protection.
   
• Family-Inclusive Coverage
  The program offers benefits for the whole family, allowing treatment benefits for up to five family members. Each member is given a special card for convenient access to medical services.
   
• Comprehensive Illness Coverage
  Karunya Arogya Suraksha Padhathi provides coverage for a wide range of critical illnesses, including cancer, haemophilia, kidney diseases, heart diseases, and more, ensuring comprehensive medical support for various conditions.
   
• Accessible Healthcare Network
  Originally only available in government hospitals, the program now includes private hospitals with modern technology, making it easier for beneficiaries to access quality healthcare and choose their preferred healthcare providers.

These amenities are designed to meet the healthcare requirements of economically disadvantaged individuals, providing them with financial assistance and medical support during critical illnesses.

Now that we have a better understanding of the scheme, let’s discuss the eligibility criteria and necessary documentation required to enrol in it.
 

Eligibility Criteria For Karunya Arogya Suraksha Padhathi

Individuals should meet the following eligibility criteria to join the Karunya Health Insurance scheme.

• Residency Requirement: The applicant should reside in Kerala.
• Income Limit: This program is exclusively available to individuals who meet the criteria for falling below the poverty line (BPL).
• Annual Income Criteria: Families with annual incomes under Rs. 3 lakhs qualify for this health insurance program, regardless of whether they are below or above the poverty line (BPL or APL).
• Required Documentation: Applicants must submit their Aadhaar card, income certificate, and any other necessary documents.
   

Documents Required While Applying For The Karunya Health Insurance Scheme

During the Karunya Health Insurance registration process, applicants must submit these documents -

1. Aadhar card or Voter ID card
2. A passport-sized picture
3. Ration card
4. Income Certificate- The Kerala government will assess your eligibility for the program based on your annual income. So, when enrolling in the healthcare plan, make sure to have all the documents enclosing your income details.
5. Address Proof - Your residential proof's original copy.
6. BPL Card -  Candidates need to provide evidence demonstrating their status as underprivileged members of society, as this program primarily caters to them. Additionally, BPL cardholders must submit this document when enrolling for the  Karunya Health Insurance Scheme online.
    

How To Register For Kerala Arogya Insurance Card Online Registration?

Getting enrolled in health insurance programs like the Karunya Health Insurance Scheme is now easier with online access. You can initiate your application process directly via the official website of the Kerala Government by following these steps -

Step 1: Visit http://karunya.kerala.gov.in to kickstart your application process.

Step 2: To apply, simply click on "How to Apply" and download the application form.

Step 3: Provide all requested information correctly and submit the form along with the required documents.

You need to monitor your application's progress by utilising the "Application Tracking" feature or by searching for your name in the "List of Beneficiaries" on the homepage.
 

In Conclusion, 

The Karunya Arogya Suraksha Padhathi stands as a testament to Kerala's commitment to equitable healthcare. With its inclusive coverage and minimal financial burden, individuals find solace in their quest to buy insurance without the hefty price tag. By extending financial assistance and comprehensive coverage to the underprivileged, the scheme is transforming lives and fostering a healthier, more inclusive society. With the Karunya Health Insurance Scheme, the journey towards accessible and affordable healthcare for all takes a significant leap forward.

FAQs