Warangal: Aarogyasri hospitals suspend services over pending dues, demand revision of packages

Hyderabad: The Telangana Network Hospitals Association (TANHA), Warangal District Branch, has announced that all Aarogyasri network hospitals have suspended services to Aarogyasri patients since January 10. The decision stems from unpaid claims by the government, resulting in financial strain on hospitals.

‘Consultants and suppliers not getting paid for services’

Dr Ramesh Gundeti, president of TANHA’s Warangal branch, said, “Consultants are unwilling to work because hospitals cannot pay their consultation fees and salaries. Additionally, suppliers are threatening to halt supplies due to pending payments for the last six months.”

Key demands by TANHA

TANHA has submitted a representation to the health minister and the CEO of the Aarogyasri scheme, outlining their grievances and proposed solutions. Some of the prominent demands are:

1. Redrafting the MoU

“The current MoU primarily supports the Aarogyasri Healthcare Trust (AHCT) but neglects the interests of network hospitals,” said Dr Gundeti. He emphasised the need for a redressal mechanism involving TANHA members and a bilateral agreement.

2. Revision of packages

According to TANHA, the package revision done in July 2024 was incomplete and favoured the government and Telangana State Hospitals Association (TSHA) packages. “We request a comprehensive package revision that includes inputs from network hospitals,” said Dr Ram Prasad Reddy, secretary of TANHA.

3. Timely payments

Hospitals have also demanded regular monthly payments to clear old dues and ensure smooth disbursement of ongoing and future claims.

4. Preferential payments to network hospitals

“Network hospitals primarily serve below-poverty-line families and play a critical role in the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model of Aarogyasri. We request preferential payments to protect and strengthen our services,” said Dr Pola Natraj, vice president of the Warangal branch.

TANHA has urged the government to address their concerns promptly to prevent further disruption to healthcare services for the underprivileged. The association awaits a positive response from the government to resolve the crisis and restore services.