APSHA Raises Fresh Concerns Over Financial Crisis
Concerns have resurfaced over the implementation of the Aarogyasri Health Scheme in Andhra Pradesh, as the Andhra Pradesh Specialty Hospitals Association (APSHA) has written to the State Government and the Dr. NTR Vaidya Seva Trust, highlighting the severe financial difficulties being faced by network hospitals.
According to the association, the government had earlier assured a One-Time Settlement (OTS) of ₹1,000 crore towards pending dues. It had also promised to release around ₹170 crore every month regularly to ensure smooth functioning of the scheme. However, APSHA alleged that these commitments have not been fulfilled, leaving network hospitals under significant financial stress.
Hospitals Struggling to Maintain Services
The association stated that delays in government reimbursements have made it increasingly difficult for hospitals to pay salaries to doctors and staff, procure medicines, surgical supplies, and other essential medical consumables.
APSHA said that more than 320 hospitals participated in a recent meeting, where members unanimously expressed concern over the worsening financial situation and the challenges in continuing quality healthcare services under the Aarogyasri scheme.
HPR Deadline Could Affect Patient Care
The association also expressed concern over a communication from the Dr. NTR Vaidya Seva Trust, stating that pre-authorizations would be suspended from August 10, 2026, for hospitals that fail to complete Health Provider Registry (HPR) registration.
APSHA warned that implementing such a decision while substantial reimbursement dues remain pending could severely disrupt treatment for patients covered under the Aarogyasri scheme and adversely affect healthcare delivery across the state.
APSHA’s Five Key Demands
In its letter, the association urged the government to address the issue on priority and put forward five major demands:
- Immediately release ₹600 crore in pending hospital bills.
- Ensure regular monthly reimbursement payments without delays.
- Announce a clear timeline for clearing all remaining outstanding dues.
- Convene an urgent meeting with stakeholders to resolve the crisis.
- Suspend the proposed HPR-linked pre-authorization restriction until all pending payments are cleared.
Growing Concerns Over the Future of Aarogyasri
APSHA cautioned that if the government does not respond immediately, lakhs of patients dependent on the Aarogyasri scheme could face serious difficulties in accessing treatment.
The association believes that uninterrupted financial support is essential for hospitals to continue providing healthcare services under the scheme. Attention is now focused on how the Andhra Pradesh government will respond to these demands and whether immediate measures will be taken to prevent disruptions in patient care.
