*Information for ECHS Beneficiaries – Reimbursement of NA (Non-Available) Medicines and Procedure in Case of Claim Rejection*
It is observed that reimbursement claims for *Non-Available (NA) medicines* exceeding ₹25,000 are sometimes denied when they are processed under the *General Conditions* financial ceiling. Beneficiaries may note that higher reimbursement limits are admissible under specific categories as per guidelines of the *ECHS*
1. Verify the Claim Category
Before pursuing the matter, confirm that the claim has been submitted under the correct admissible category (per instance for approximately 30-day supply):
* *General Conditions:* Up to ₹25,000
* *Special Conditions (chronic / severe diseases as per policy):* Up to ₹75,000
* *Cancer Medicines:* Up to ₹5,00,000
If medicines relate to a notified Special Condition but were processed as General, a review may be requested.
*2. Approach the Regional Centre (First Respondent)*
The concerned *Regional Centre (ECHS) is the primary authority for settlement of claim issues. Beneficiaries should:
* Visit or write to the Regional Centre to obtain the exact reason for rejection.
* Submit a written request for reconsideration if categorisation appears incorrect.
* Attach prescription, NA certificate, sanction sheet, and bills.
*3. Use the Complaint & Litigation Reduction Scheme (CLRS)*
ECHS provides a mechanism for early dispute resolution through CLRS.
* *Medical claim assistance:*
9004722106 / 9910244611
* *Email for unresolved issues:*
Provide full details including Card No., Polyclinic, Claim No., and supporting documents.
*4. Lodge a Formal Grievance (If Required)*
If the matter remains unresolved:
* Submit a grievance on *Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS)*
* Call the ECHS Toll-Free Helpline: *1800-114-115*
*5. Check Documentation Carefully*
Many claims are rejected due to procedural deficiencies. Ensure:
* Valid *NA Certificate* issued by the OIC Polyclinic
* Prescription properly endorsed as *“Genuine”*
* Original bills uploaded correctly on the BPA portal
* Treatment period and quantity consistent with sanction norms
*Beneficiaries are advised to first seek correction at the Regional Centre level and escalate only if the issue is not resolved within a reasonable time. Proper categorisation and complete documentation generally ensure timely reimbursement.*
From,
_Santosh Kumar Mishra_
_Air Veteran_