PDP leader expresses concern over backlog in health insurance scheme

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader and former Minister Naem Akhtar on Tuesday expressed concern over the growing crisis in Jammu and Kashmir’s health insurance scheme, which according to him, has left nearly 3 lakh cases unresolved.

In a statement on Wednesday, Akhtar said delays in clearing claims are severely impacting critical care, with private hospitals ready to close SEHAT Scheme due to unpaid dues.

Quoting media reports, Akhtar highlighted that only 1,000 cases are being cleared daily, leaving Rs 420 crore worth of medical procedures unpaid.

He said the High Court had explicitly directed the insurance company to refrain from rejecting claims on “flimsy” grounds, but such practices reportedly persist.

Akhtar also raised alarm over the reported spike in Hepatitis cases in north Kashmir’s Bandipora. Calling for a swift response, he urged authorities to immediately deploy a specialised team from SKIMS to the affected area.

“Facilities at the district hospital must be upgraded to enable early detection and timely intervention,” he said, adding that daily monitoring of cases should be conducted under the supervision of the deputy commissioner.