Important Changes in Central Government Health Scheme: What Employees Must Know

The Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), a critical pillar of healthcare access for central government employees and pensioners, has undergone a significant transformation. With effect from April 28, 2025, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has implemented a mandatory change in the contribution process to make it more streamlined and digital-first.

Discontinuation of Bharatkosh for CGHS Payments

Earlier, pensioners and beneficiaries were required to make payments or renew their CGHS cards through the Bharatkosh portal. However, this method has now been officially discontinued.

As per the recent circular, all CGHS contributions must now be made exclusively through the official CGHS website: www.cghs.mohfw.gov.in

The ministry has clarified that any payment not completed through Bharatkosh by April 27, 2025 will result in automatic cancellation of the application. Applicants affected by this must reapply through the new CGHS portal.

Linking Beneficiary ID with PAN is Mandatory

To facilitate accurate verification and streamline the integration process, all beneficiaries above 18 years of age have been instructed to link their Beneficiary ID with their PAN card. The government has also advised immediate correction of any discrepancies in existing records.

Read More: Top 6 Government Schemes for a Secure and Peaceful Retirement in India. 

A New HMIS Platform

The earlier CGHS infrastructure, designed in 2005, had become outdated and inefficient. As a result, a new Health Management Information System (HMIS) developed by C-DAC (Centre for Development of Advanced Computing) has now been launched.

This HMIS is a fully digital platform offering real-time tracking, auto-verification, and end-to-end transparency in service delivery.

Temporary Shutdown and Transition Measures

To ensure a seamless transition to the new system:

• All CGHS Wellness Centres were temporarily closed for the public on 26 April 2025.
   
• Old websites such as www.cghs.gov.in and www.cghs.nic.in have been decommissioned.
   
• All services are now centralised on the new CGHS portal (www.cghs.mohfw.gov.in).

Reset Password When Logging In

First-time users of the new portal are required to reset their password during their initial login. Beneficiaries will be kept updated through SMS and email notifications about the progress of their application and services.

Introduction of the ‘myCGHS’ Mobile App

As part of this digital upgrade, the Ministry has launched the ‘myCGHS’ mobile application, offering a host of self-service options including:

• Transferring CGHS cards
   
• Adding dependents
   
• Changing card types
  All of these can now be managed conveniently from a mobile phone.

Your Past Data is Safe and Secure

A critical concern during any digital transition is data loss. However, the Ministry has confirmed that no existing data including medical history, card information, or referrals will be erased. Robust data privacy and security measures have been put in place.

On-Ground Assistance for Beneficiaries

To assist users with the new digital ecosystem, Master Trainers have been assigned across CGHS offices and wellness centres. These trained personnel are available to guide employees and pensioners through the new procedures and address any queries.

Conclusion

According to the Ministry, this overhaul is not just an upgrade in technology it reflects a broader goal: to ensure that beneficiaries, especially senior citizens and pensioners, receive health services with enhanced transparency, efficiency, and reliability.

The move is seen as a step forward in aligning healthcare systems with modern-day digital governance, making the CGHS platform future-ready.

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