Free Cataract Surgery Under Ayushman Bharat
The Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY scheme covers a comprehensive range of ophthalmology procedures, giving eligible patients access to life-saving and quality-of-life-improving treatments completely free of cost. This guide explains what specific procedures are covered, how to find the right hospital, and what to expect during treatment.
Procedures Covered Under PM-JAY
The PM-JAY scheme covers the following ophthalmology procedures: cataract surgery with IOL implant (phacoemulsification and SICS), glaucoma treatment (trabeculectomy, laser), retinal surgery (vitrectomy, laser photocoagulation), squint correction surgery, and corneal transplant (keratoplasty). Each procedure is covered as a defined package with a fixed rate — the hospital cannot charge you anything beyond the package.
Detailed Coverage
Cataract Surgery with IOL Implant: This is the single most performed procedure under PM-JAY across India. The surgery involves removing the clouded natural lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). PM-JAY covers both phacoemulsification (ultrasound-based, small incision) and SICS (manual small incision) techniques. The cost of the IOL is included in the package.
Glaucoma Surgery: Trabeculectomy and other surgical procedures to reduce intraocular pressure and prevent vision loss. Also covers laser treatment for glaucoma (laser trabeculoplasty). Long-term glaucoma medication during hospitalisation is covered.
Retinal Surgery: Vitrectomy for retinal detachment, laser photocoagulation for diabetic retinopathy, and intravitreal injections. These are critical sight-saving procedures covered under PM-JAY.
Squint Correction: Surgical correction of misaligned eyes in both children and adults. Covered under the ophthalmology packages.
Corneal Transplant: Replacement of damaged corneal tissue with healthy donor cornea. Covers the surgery cost — the donor cornea is typically sourced through eye banks. PM-JAY covers penetrating keratoplasty and lamellar keratoplasty.
How to Find a Hospital for Cataract Surgery
Not every PMJAY empanelled hospital offers ophthalmology services. You need to find a hospital specifically empanelled for this specialty in your district.
Step 1: Visit PMJAYHospitals.com — Ophthalmology
Step 2: Select your state and district to see all hospitals offering this specialty near you.
Step 3: Call the hospital to confirm they are currently performing the specific procedure you need under PM-JAY.
Step 4: Visit the hospital with your Ayushman Bharat card, Aadhaar card, and any existing medical reports.
Important Warning
Do not delay eye treatment — conditions like retinal detachment and acute glaucoma can cause permanent blindness if not treated promptly. Cataract surgery is one of the safest surgeries with a very high success rate.
Recovery and Post-Treatment Care
Cataract surgery is a day-care procedure — you go home the same day. Vision improvement is typically noticed within 24-48 hours. Glaucoma and retinal surgeries may require 2-3 days of hospitalisation. PM-JAY covers follow-up visits for 15 days post-surgery including eye drops and medicines.
What You Need to Carry
- Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY card (physical or digital via ABHA app)
- Aadhaar card (original, for biometric verification)
- All existing medical reports, X-rays, scans, and prescriptions
- Referral letter from your doctor (if available)
- Previous discharge summary (if this is a follow-up treatment)
Cost to the Patient
The treatment is completely cashless under PM-JAY. You pay nothing — not for the surgery, not for medicines, not for implants or devices, not for ICU charges, and not for diagnostic tests during hospitalisation. The hospital settles the bill directly with the insurance company or state health agency. If any hospital asks you to pay, call the PMJAY helpline at 14555 immediately.
Find hospitals for this treatment: PMJAY Ophthalmology Hospitals
Disclaimer: PMJAYHospitals.com is an independent directory and is not affiliated with the National Health Authority or any government body. Treatment information is for general guidance only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified doctor for treatment decisions. For official PM-JAY information, visit pmjay.gov.in or call 14555.