Maharashtra government has unveiled a forward-thinking initiative, to assign every patient a Unique Health ID. This move will enable hospitals to access a patient’s medical history with a single click, ensuring more efficient and timely treatment.

Under the new system, every individual seeking treatment at a hospital will be issued a Unique Health ID, which will store essential information such as their name, address, previous illnesses, and treatment history. This data will be readily accessible to hospitals statewide, eliminating the need for patients and their families to carry physical medical records. Additionally, the Unique Health ID will be integrated with government healthcare schemes, streamlining the process of determining eligibility for financial aid.

In another key step, the Chief Minister’s Medical Assistance Fund has undergone decentralisation, making financial aid more readily available. Previously, economically disadvantaged patients had to visit the state secretariat (Mantralaya) in Mumbai to apply for assistance. However, with the new reform, special medical assistance units will be established at district collector offices, enabling patients to apply for support locally.

In addition to this, the government is launching a toll-free helpline aimed at guiding patients to both government and private hospitals offering affordable treatment.