Punjab’s flagship Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana has spent nearly ₹86 lakh on the treatment of respiratory ailments, including pneumonia, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and respiratory failure, benefiting more than 3,000 patients across the state.
Sharing details, Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh said a total of 3,019 respiratory-related treatments have been provided under the scheme so far. "Around 46 lakh people have registered under the health insurance programme in the five months since its launch," he noted.
Providing cashless health cover of up to ₹10 lakh per family annually, the scheme has emerged as a key support system for patients requiring timely medical intervention, particularly those from economically weaker sections.
“Respiratory diseases can turn life-threatening if treatment is delayed. Through the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana, families no longer have to worry about arranging money during medical emergencies. Patients can access cashless treatment and seek care without delay,” said Dr Balbir Singh.
He said respiratory illnesses remain among the most common causes of hospitalisation in Punjab, particularly during seasonal transitions and periods of elevated air pollution. "What often begins as a cough, fever or breathing difficulty can quickly escalate into a serious medical condition if left untreated," he added.
The Minister noted that financial constraints had traditionally forced many families to postpone hospital visits, often leading to complications and higher treatment costs. "With cashless coverage available for more than 2,300 procedures and treatments, the scheme is helping patients access healthcare at an earlier stage of illness," he added.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to affordable healthcare, Dr Balbir Singh said, "The scheme was reducing the financial burden on families while encouraging timely medical intervention and improving health outcomes across Punjab."
Pulmonologist Dr Jorawar Singh at Mata Kaushalya Government Hospital, Patiala, said delayed hospitalisation continues to be a major challenge in respiratory care. “Many respiratory illnesses respond far better when treated early. However, patients often arrive after their condition has deteriorated because families are struggling to arrange funds. Cashless treatment under Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana is helping bridge that gap,” he said.
Dr Jorawar Singh said the burden of respiratory disease has been rising due to factors such as air pollution and seasonal smog. "Elderly persons, children and patients suffering from comorbidities such as diabetes and kidney disease remain particularly vulnerable to severe complications," he added.
He added that several patients suffering from respiratory failure had received treatment under the scheme without facing immediate financial hardship.
Appealing to citizens to take preventive measures, Dr Jorawar Singh advised people to avoid smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke, use protective equipment in dust- or chemical-prone workplaces and ensure adequate ventilation inside their homes.
