Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 21 May 2025
Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray, Hon’ble Member of Parliament from the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, has urged the Administration to introduce a free or reimbursable transportation scheme for patients referred from remote inter-island regions to GB Pant Hospital, Sri Vijaya Puram, for emergency or specialized medical treatment.
In a letter addressed to the Hon’ble Lt. Governor of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Mr. Ray highlighted the hardships faced by patients—especially from economically weaker sections—who must travel long distances, often by helicopter or ship, to access advanced medical care in the capital. The MP also endorsed copies of the letter to the Hon’ble Prime Minister, the Hon’ble Union Home Minister, and the Hon’ble Health & Family Welfare Minister, seeking their consideration on the matter.
During recent visits to remote islands, the MP said he encountered several cases where patients referred to GB Pant Hospital bore the high cost of emergency transportation, along with expenses for an accompanying attendant. “This financial burden is pushing many vulnerable families into distress,” he said.
Mr. Ray noted that under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), and its predecessor ANIISHI, patients referred to mainland hospitals are eligible for reimbursement of travel expenses for both the patient and an attendant. He argued that similar provisions should be extended within the Union Territory for referrals to GB Pant Hospital, which functions as the apex medical institution in the islands.
Citing the region’s unique geographical challenges, the MP emphasized the need for a dedicated scheme that ensures free or reimbursable medical transport for inter-island referrals. “Such a policy would be a critical lifeline for patients in remote areas and reflect the Administration’s commitment to equitable healthcare access,” he said.
In the absence of a new scheme, Mr. Ray suggested that the existing guidelines under the State Health Agency (SHA) may be amended to include inter-island referrals. He referred specifically to Notification which outlines the health insurance referral framework in the islands.
Expressing hope for swift and compassionate action, the MP called upon the Administration to prioritize the issue in the interest of islanders living in remote and medically underserved regions.