Free dialysis under National Health Mission is a crucial healthcare support initiative aimed at reducing the financial burden on patients suffering from chronic kidney disease and those requiring emergency critical care. Implemented across government hospitals, the scheme ensures life-saving treatment without heavy out-of-pocket expenses.
Under the National Health Mission (NHM), both dialysis services and critical care facilities are strengthened, especially in district and rural hospitals.
WHAT IS THE NATIONAL HEALTH MISSION?
The National Health Mission is a flagship public healthcare programme of the Government of India, focused on improving access to affordable and quality healthcare.
NHM covers:
- National Rural Health Mission (NRHM)
- National Urban Health Mission (NUHM)
One of its major components is free dialysis under National Health Mission through the National Dialysis Programme.
Also Read: yushman Bharat Digital Health Mission Rollout Status — Latest
FREE DIALYSIS SERVICES UNDER NHM
How the Free Dialysis Scheme Works
Under free dialysis under National Health Mission, eligible patients receive:
- Free haemodialysis sessions in government hospitals
- No charges for consumables or dialysis machines
- Services at district hospitals and medical colleges
- PPP-mode dialysis centres in selected states
This scheme primarily targets patients from economically weaker sections.
CRITICAL CARE SCHEMES UNDER NHM
ICU & Emergency Support
Along with free dialysis under National Health Mission, NHM also supports:
- Free or subsidised ICU beds
- Oxygen-supported and ventilator facilities
- Emergency trauma and critical illness care
- Critical Care Blocks in district hospitals
These facilities help manage serious conditions like sepsis, respiratory failure, trauma, and maternal emergencies.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR FREE SERVICES?
Eligibility for free dialysis under National Health Mission and critical care includes:
- BPL and economically weaker patients
- Patients referred from government health facilities
- Emergency cases requiring immediate treatment
Exact eligibility rules may vary slightly by state.
HOW TO AVAIL FREE DIALYSIS & CRITICAL CARE
To access free dialysis under National Health Mission:
- Visit a government or NHM-covered hospital
- Get examined by a government doctor
- Register under the hospital’s dialysis or ICU unit
- Submit basic identity documents if required
Most services are cashless at the point of care.
Also Read: Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY Expansion Update for Senior Citizens 2026
WHY THIS SCHEME IS IMPORTANT
Free dialysis under National Health Mission has:
- Reduced catastrophic medical expenses
- Improved survival rates for kidney patients
- Strengthened public hospital infrastructure
- Increased access in rural and semi-urban areas
The scheme plays a vital role in India’s public health system.
FAQs
Is dialysis completely free under NHM?
Yes, dialysis is free at designated government hospitals for eligible patients.
Are ICU services free under NHM?
Emergency and critical care services are free or highly subsidised in public hospitals.
Is this scheme available in private hospitals?
Only government and NHM-empanelled facilities are covered.
CONCLUSION
The free dialysis under National Health Mission and critical care schemes provide essential, life-saving healthcare support to vulnerable patients. By ensuring access to dialysis and ICU care without financial stress, NHM continues to strengthen India’s public healthcare safety net.
Patients are advised to approach government hospitals to fully benefit from these schemes.
DISCLAIMER
Disclaimer: This article is based on official NHM guidelines, government information, and publicly available reports at the time of publication. Availability and eligibility may vary by state. Readers should verify details with local health authorities.
