The Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), a flagship healthcare programme under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, has recently launched a new Health Management Information System (HMIS) aimed at enhancing service delivery. The new digital platform, which became operational from April 28, 2025, replaces the previous CGHS software and promises faster, more transparent, and user-friendly access to healthcare services. If you are a CGHS beneficiary, here’s all the essential information regarding the new HMIS features.
According to a release by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on April 23, 2025, “This change is being implemented in view of the technical impracticality of the current CGHS software. The old software has been in use since 2005 but is not compatible with modern IT standards, cybersecurity frameworks, and user expectations. The revised HMIS will enable quicker, more transparent and user-friendly access to CGHS services and will ensure better service delivery and administrative efficiency.”
Key features of the new CGHS
The next-generation HMIS introduces cutting-edge features to simplify access to CGHS services. Here’s a breakdown of the major improvements:
1. PAN-based unique identification of beneficiaries
Each beneficiary will now have a unique PAN-based identifier, reducing duplicate records and streamlining eligibility verification.
Action Required: Link your PAN card to your CGHS Beneficiary ID via the new portal. Correct any errors through the beneficiary login.
2. Integrated digital verification and contribution tracking
Contribution payments are now auto-verified via integration with Bharat Kosh, eliminating manual entry errors and refund issues.
From April 28, 2025, payments must be made exclusively through the new CGHS website (www.cghs.mohfw.gov.in). The Bharat Kosh portal will no longer accept CGHS payments.
3. Pre-payment checking of applications
Card applications are now verified and approved before payment, guiding applicants on eligibility and contribution amounts upfront, reducing rejections.
4. Online Card modification Services
Services like card transfers, dependent status changes, and category updates (e.g., switching to pensioner status) can now be completed entirely online, saving time and effort.
5. Real-time application tracking and alerts
Receive SMS and email alerts at every stage of application processing, enhancing transparency and reducing the need for follow-ups.
6. Mandatory password reset and secure access
All users must reset their password on first login to comply with cybersecurity standards, protecting against potential threats.
7. DDO/PAO-based department identification
Departments are verified using Pay & Accounts Office (PAO) and Drawing & Disbursing Officer (DDO) codes from employee pay slips, ensuring accurate backend mapping.
8. Mobile App Relaunch (Android & iOS)
The relaunched CGHS mobile app offers:
- Access to a Digital CGHS Card.
- Real-time status tracking for applications.
- E-referrals and appointment scheduling (where available).
- Direct connectivity with the CGHS Helpdesk and Additional Director (AD) offices.
Things to note
- Applications for CGHS service not paid till April 27, 2025, will be cancelled; fresh applications will have to be made through the new portal.
- All beneficiaries above 18 years of age are advised to link their PAN card with their CGHS Beneficiary ID, and in case of any error, apply for correction through the beneficiary login on the CGHS website www.cghs.mohfw.gov.in.
- Cards currently issued will continue to function as normal.
