NHPS urges NHA to review new hemodialysis guidelines

Nagaland Health Protection Society (NHPS) has requested the National Health Authority (NHA) to reconsider the recently introduced modifications in hemodialysis packages under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY).
In a press release, NHPS chief executive officer (CEO) Thavaseelan K stated that the new guidelines limit the number of dialysis cycles per pre-authorization to six, mandate two bio-authentications (entry and exit) for each cycle, and restrict the maximum duration between entry and exit to four hours. NHPS acknowledged that these measures were aimed at ensuring uniformity across states and preventing misuse or malpractices.
Extending support to the objectives of enhancing accountability and transparency in the scheme, the NHPS has, however, expressed concern over potential operational challenges these modifications could pose for hospitals and cause inconvenience to patients.
Accordingly, the society said a request has been submitted to the NHA to review the recent modification so a proper balance was maintained between ensuring greater accountability and safeguarding patient convenience. NHPS said the response from NHA was still awaited. NHPS clarified that the Insurance Company had no authority to introduce any systemic changes or policy alterations in this matter.