The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has successfully tackled misuse and malpractices in the Urban Poor Health Scheme (UPHS) through implementation of digitisation. By utilising computerised technologies, PMC officials were able to identify residents who were taking advantage of the health scheme meant for economically weaker sections while simultaneously paying significant property taxes. These fraudulent applications were promptly rejected after thorough investigation, thanks to the software’s detection capabilities.
PMC initiated UPHS a decade ago with the aim of providing free or discounted medical treatment to the economically weaker sections at affiliated hospitals. Originally, the scheme was limited to citizens with an annual income of up to INR 1 lakh, but it was expanded to INR 2 lakh in 2019. Under the programme, PMC covers the cost of treatment up to INR1 lakh, with an increased limit of INR 2 lakh for critical illnesses.
Over the years, PMC discovered instances of fraud and misuse within the scheme, where disqualified citizens continued to benefit from it. To address this issue and enhance transparency, PMC introduced an online process and digitalisation of UPHS.
Dr. Bhagwan Pawar, Health Officer of PMC, emphasised that the introduction of software was a crucial step towards bringing transparency to UPHS and digitising the entire process. PMC’s decision aimed to protect the rights of eligible beneficiaries and prevent any undue advantage being taken of the scheme. Through the effective implementation of digitisation, the Pune Municipal Corporation successfully tackled misuse and malpractices within the Urban Poor Health Scheme.
