The Ministry of Road Transport has approved a plan to offer free medical treatment to victims of road accidents. Under this new scheme, individuals injured in road crashes will receive medical attention at designated hospitals across India, enlisted under the Ayushman Bharat program. The treatment, covering expenses up to Rs 1.5 lakh, will cater to hospital stays of up to 10 days, with insurance companies footing the bill.

The primary goal of this initiative is to provide timely medical aid to accident victims, particularly within the crucial first hour after the incident, often referred to as the 'golden hour'. Research indicates that swift medical intervention during this period can potentially prevent up to half of all road fatalities. India, in 2022, witnessed a staggering 1.68 lakh road-related deaths, underlining the urgency for such measures.

Following consultations across ministries, the proposal found its place in the amended Central Motor Vehicle Act of 2019. A government official affirmed that the scheme would roll out soon, without burdening the public coffers. Instead, insurance providers will cover the costs, which are expected to be a fraction of the premiums collected for third-party insurance. By curbing fatalities through prompt medical assistance, insurers stand to benefit from reduced compensation payouts.

Ministry assessments reveal that the average medical expenses for the majority (around 97%) of road accident cases hover around Rs 60,000. Only a minority of victims necessitate prolonged hospitalization and intensive care.

During an event organized by the International Road Federation, Union Transport Secretary Anurag Jain disclosed plans to integrate the cashless treatment scheme into the final framework, slated for launch by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare shortly.

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