CGHS: There is big news for central employees and pensioners. The Central Government has made the biggest changes in the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) after 15 years. Now new rates for about 2,000 medical packages have been released. These new rates will be applicable from Monday 13 October 2025. 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 remained 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 treatment expenses themselves and had to wait for months for the refund. In August 2025, the Central Government Employees Union (GENC) had demanded reforms from the government. In many cases, problems like not getting emergency treatment on time were also encountered.
How are the 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. You will get fast refund and trust will increase.
other changes
The Health Ministry updated the rules on 16 September 2025. Now transgender children and siblings can also avail CGHS benefits if they are financially dependent and certified under the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019.
CGHS online portal and mobile app improved.
Cashless treatment will now be 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, provisional CGHS card can be issued on the basis of Last Pay Certificate.
How to see new rates and codes
You can download the PDF on CGHS website. All procedure codes and new package rates are given in it. The rates of NABH and Non-NABH hospitals are different.