The Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) is a vital initiative by the Indian government aimed at providing comprehensive healthcare services to its employees and pensioners. This article will walk you through everything you need to know about CGHS, including eligibility criteria, facilities offered, timings, beneficiary login, and how to book an online appointment in 2025.
What is CGHS?
CGHS stands for Central Government Health Scheme, a healthcare program introduced in 1954 by the Union Government of India. The scheme provides cashless healthcare facilities to central government employees, pensioners, and their dependents. It ensures access to quality medical care under various systems of medicine, including Allopathy, Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Unani, Yoga, and Siddha.
Key Features of CGHS
- Cashless Treatment => Beneficiaries can avail of medical services without upfront payments.
- Wide Coverage => Available in 71 cities across India, covering approximately 35 lakh beneficiaries.
- Open-Ended Approach => Ensures accessibility to diverse medical treatments.
- Specialist Consultations => Includes consultations at polyclinics or government hospitals.
Who is Eligible for CGHS?
To benefit from the CGHS, individuals must meet specific eligibility criteria;
- Current Employees:
- Central government employees and their families.
- Employees from departments like the Railway Board, Delhi Police, and Post & Telegraph.
- Pensioners:
- Retired central government employees and their family members.
- Freedom fighters, ex-MPs, and retired judges of the High Court or Supreme Court.
- Ex-Vice Presidents, Governors, and Lt. Governors.
- Other Beneficiaries:
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- Journalists registered with the Press Information Bureau.
- Family members of eligible beneficiaries.
Required Documents for CGHS Online Appointment
- For Current Employees:
- Proof of residence.
- Age proof.
- Disability certificate (if applicable).
- For Pensioners:
- Valid CGHS card.
- Payslip copy or pay certificate.
- Proof of residence and age.
Facilities Under CGHS
The CGHS offers a wide range of healthcare services, ensuring holistic well-being for its beneficiaries;
- Medical Consultations: Specialist consultations at polyclinics or government hospitals. Free consultations in AYUSH systems (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy).
- Maternity and Childcare: Comprehensive maternal and child healthcare services.
- Cashless Treatment: Available at empaneled private hospitals. No referral letter is required for certain categories like ex-MPs and freedom fighters.
- Medicine Dispensation: Free medicines prescribed by government specialists.
How to Book a CGHS Online Appointment in 2025?
Booking an appointment with CGHS has been simplified through its user-friendly online portal. Follow these steps to schedule your appointment;
- Visit the Official Website i.e. https://cghs.nic.in/
- Then log in by entering your registered ID and generate an OTP sent to your mobile number.
- If you’re a new user, click on the “Generate Password” option.
- Choose the medical specialty and preferred doctor from the available options.
- A calendar will display available slots. Select your preferred date and time.
- Review your details and click “Proceed to Appointment” to confirm your appointment.
- Once your booking is confirmed, you’ll receive a confirmation message.
How to Register on the CGHS Portal?
If you’re a first-time user, follow these steps to register on the CGHS portal;
- Navigate to the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) Portal.
- Fill Out the Registration Form with accurate details.
- Print the hard copy of the form and get it verified by an authorized person.
- Attach recent photographs and required documents (e.g., proof of residence, age proof).
- Submit the completed application to the office of the Additional Director or Joint Director.
Steps to Log In to the CGHS Portal
- Logging into the CGHS portal is straightforward;
- Go to the Official Website @cghs.nic.in.
- Enter Login credentials i.e. your ID, password, and captcha details.
- Use the “Forgot Password” option if needed.
- Optionally, update your Aadhaar number for better verification.
Contact Information for CGHS Support
For any queries or assistance, you can reach out to the CGHS helpline;
- Toll-Free Helpline Number: 1800-208-8900
- Email ID: cghs-helpdesk[at]lsmgr[dot]nic[dot]in
- Additional Contact Options: Click Here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What does CGHS stand for?
- CGHS stands for Central Government Health Scheme.
Q2: When was the CGHS established?
- The CGHS was established in 1954.
Q3: Can I book an appointment online?
- Yes, you can book an appointment online through the official CGHS portal at https://cghs.nic.in.
Q4: Is cashless treatment available for all beneficiaries?
- Cashless treatment is available for eligible beneficiaries, including ex-MPs, freedom fighters, and regular employees of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
The Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) is a commendable initiative that ensures accessible and affordable healthcare for central government employees, pensioners, and their families. With its easy-to-use online portal, beneficiaries can now book appointments, access medical records, and avail of cashless treatments seamlessly. Whether you’re a current employee or a pensioner, understanding the CGHS framework and utilizing its services can significantly enhance your healthcare experience.