Veterans can avail reimbursement for dependents at military hospitals

LUCKNOW: In a major relief to veterans, the union ministry of defence has allowed reimbursement against the medical bills of treatment of dependents in military hospitals.A notification for the same has been issued in the third week of the last month.According to the new order, all medical expenses incurred during the treatment of the dependents (parents and others) at the military hospital, has to be paid by the veteran to the hospital.However, the bill will be 100% reimbursed by ECHS (Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme).After the discharge, the ECHS beneficiary will upload the bill on https://www.echsbpa.utiitsl.com/ECHS/ to claim the amount. Earlier, there was no clause of reimbursement.Speaking to TOI, a very senior official of a military hospital said, "This was much needed, and we welcome the step taken by the ministry of defence.""This new order will release the financial burden from veterans," said the officer.Military hospitals won't charge for specialist doctor fees, but will charge for bed, food, medicine and treatment.It's important to note that a cashless ECHS facility for treatment in military hospitals is still available for veterans their spouses, and children below the age of 25-years and unmarried daughter.