Free Dialysis Under PM-JAY
Kidney failure requiring regular dialysis is one of the most expensive ongoing medical conditions. A single dialysis session can cost ₹1,500-3,000 at private centres, and patients typically need 2-3 sessions per week — that adds up to ₹15,000-35,000 per month. PM-JAY makes dialysis completely free at empanelled hospitals and dialysis centres.
How Dialysis Is Covered Under PM-JAY
PM-JAY covers haemodialysis as a package-based treatment. The package includes the dialysis session, consumables (dialyser, blood tubing, saline), EPO injections if needed, and basic blood tests for monitoring. Each session is covered individually against your ₹5 lakh annual limit.
Peritoneal dialysis (CAPD/APD) is also covered as an alternative for patients who cannot undergo haemodialysis or prefer home-based dialysis.
How to Start Dialysis Under PM-JAY
Step 1: Get a nephrologist’s prescription confirming that you need regular dialysis. This is based on your GFR (Glomerular Filtration Rate) and other kidney function tests.
Step 2: Find a PMJAY empanelled hospital or dialysis centre. Search PMJAYHospitals.com for hospitals with General Medicine or Urology empanelment in your district — most of these offer dialysis.
Step 3: Visit the hospital with your PM-JAY card, Aadhaar, and nephrologist’s prescription. The Ayushman Mitra will verify your eligibility and set up regular dialysis sessions.
Step 4: Each dialysis session is processed as a separate PM-JAY claim. You do not need to do paperwork every session — the hospital handles it after the initial setup.
Important Tips for Dialysis Patients
Monitor your annual PM-JAY balance carefully. With 2-3 sessions per week at approximately ₹2,000 per session, you could use ₹4-6 lakh per year on dialysis alone. If your ₹5 lakh limit is exhausted, check if your state has additional coverage above the central limit.
Ask about kidney transplant eligibility. Transplant is a one-time surgery covered under PM-JAY that can free you from lifelong dialysis. Discuss this option with your nephrologist.
Choose a dialysis centre close to your home since you will be visiting 2-3 times per week. Travel to a distant hospital for every session is impractical.
Disclaimer: PMJAYHospitals.com is an independent directory. For official PM-JAY information, visit pmjay.gov.in or call 14555.