CGHS: There is big news for central employees and pensioners. Today, from Monday 13 October 2025, the biggest changes have come into effect in the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) after 15 years. New rates for approximately 2,000 medical packages have been issued. After this, cashless treatment in private hospitals will be easier than before for CGHS card holders.
Why were changes necessary
For a long time, many hospitals under CGHS were hesitant in providing cashless treatment. The reason was old package rates and delay in payment. Due to this, employees and pensioners had to bear the cost of treatment themselves and had to wait for months to get the refund. In August 2025, the Central Government Employees Union (GENC) had demanded reforms from the government on this issue. In many cases, problems like not getting emergency treatment on time were also seen.
New CGHS Rates
Now the rates of about 2,000 medical procedures will be decided based on the city and category of the hospital:
Rates in Tier-II cities will be 19% less than the base rate.
Rates in Tier-III cities will be 20% less.
Base rates will apply in NABH-accredited hospitals.
Rates in non-NABH hospitals will be 15% less than the base rate.
Rates in super-speciality hospitals (200+ beds) will be 15% more than the base rate.
Benefits for employees and hospitals
With these new rates, hospitals will find it easier to provide cashless treatment. Employees will not have to bear huge expenses directly. Refunds will be available quickly and the confidence of CGHS cardholders will increase.
The Health Ministry updated the rules on 16 September 2025. Now transgender children and siblings can also avail the benefits of CGHS, if they are financially dependent and certified under the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019.
Improvement in last one year
CGHS online portal and mobile app improved.
Cashless treatment became available in more hospitals.
New private hospitals added to CGHS.
The online referral system will make approval quicker and easier.
Real time tracking of medicines started.
Special helpdesks were created for senior citizens.
who is eligible
All Central employees (except Railways and Delhi Administration) and their families.
Central Pensioners (except Railways and Armed Forces).
Eligibility depends on residence in CGHS covered cities. Currently the scheme is available in 80 cities.
How to get CGHS card
Employees should submit the prescribed form and family photo to their department. Pensioners can apply at the Additional Director office in the city or download the form from the CGHS website cghs.gov.in. If PPO is not ready, a provisional card will be issued on the basis of Last Pay Certificate.
How to see new rates and codes
Download the PDF in the Notification section of CGHS website. All process codes and new package rates will be available in it.