How Many Times Can You Use the Ayushman Card for Free Treatment? Complete Guide to Eligibility, Limit and Process

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The Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) is one of India’s largest health insurance schemes, designed to help economically weaker families get free treatment without financial burden. The scheme now also includes senior citizens above 70 years of age, making it an important healthcare safety net for millions. Many people still wonder how many times they can use the Ayushman Card, what the ₹5 lakh annual limit means, and how to check their eligibility. Here is a complete guide.

How Often Can You Use the Ayushman Card in a Year?

Ayushman Card holders receive free medical treatment up to ₹5 lakh per year per family

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. This ₹5 lakh amount is not per person—it is shared among all family members covered under the card.

There is no restriction on the number of times you can visit the hospital or get admitted. You can avail treatment multiple times throughout the year, but the total expenditure must remain within the ₹5 lakh annual limit. After this limit is exhausted, free treatment under the scheme stops for that financial year.

The scheme covers treatments in both government and empanelled private hospitals

, ensuring wide access to medical care.

How to Check If You Are Eligible for the Ayushman Card

Checking your eligibility for PMJAY is simple and takes only a few minutes. You can verify it online or through a nearby help center.

Online Method
  • Visit the official PMJAY website.

  • Click on “Am I Eligible?”

  • Select your state and eligibility category.

  • Search using any one of the following:

    • Your name

    • Family ID

    • Ration card number

  • If your name appears in the list, you are eligible for the scheme.

  • Offline Method

    You can also check eligibility at the nearest CSC (Common Service Center). The staff will verify your details and inform you whether you qualify for the Ayushman Bharat scheme.

    How to Apply for the Ayushman Card Online

    The online process for generating an Ayushman Card is easy and can be completed from a smartphone.

  • Visit the Ayushman Bharat website or download the Ayushman Bharat App.

  • Enter your Aadhaar number, mobile number, and basic family details.

  • Complete the verification process.

  • Once verified, your Ayushman Card will be generated and ready for download.

  • You can save the digital card or print a physical copy for hospital visits.

    How to Apply for the Ayushman Card Offline

    If you prefer an offline method or face difficulties online, you can visit the following centers:

    • Nearby CSC Center

    • CHC (Community Health Center)

    • Government hospital with Ayushman Mitra facility

    At the center, the staff (Ayushman Mitra) will:

    • Check your eligibility

    • Collect necessary documents

    • Generate your Ayushman Card on the spot

    This method is especially helpful for rural beneficiaries or those unfamiliar with online systems.

    What to Keep in Mind During Ayushman Treatment

    To avoid any problems during hospital admission or treatment, follow these important guidelines:

    • Make sure the hospital is empanelled under Ayushman Bharat.

    • Check whether your disease or treatment procedure is included in the PMJAY package list.

    • Ensure that your Ayushman Card is active at the time of admission.

    • Carry identity documents for easy verification.

    Being prepared helps you receive smooth, cashless treatment without delays.

    Final Words

    The Ayushman Card offers a reliable health cover of ₹5 lakh annually, giving financially vulnerable families access to quality healthcare without worrying about high hospital bills. From multiple hospital visits to specialized treatments, the card can be used as many times as needed—until the total cost reaches the yearly limit.