Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Aug 11: Dr Dilip G Naik, pro-vice chancellor of the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Mangaluru campus, announced that the ‘Manipal Arogya Card’ is marching towards a remarkable 25 years of service in delivering affordable and accessible healthcare to millions of families across Karnataka and neighboring states.
On this occasion, Dr. Dilip remembered the vision of Dr T M A Pai, founder of the Manipal Group, whose dream was to make healthcare affordable to all.
"The Manipal Arogya Card scheme, launched in 2000, has now reached a Silver Jubilee milestone. Over two decades, it has touched the lives of millions of beneficiaries. In the year 2000, we had enrolled 10,500 members, and in the year 2024 we have enrolled 3.68 lac members under this scheme, and this year we have a target of up to 5 lac members," he said.
Saghir Siddiqui, regional chief operating officer, Manipal Health Enterprises & Teaching Hospitals, said, "We are offering both one-year and two-year membership options. The pricing structure ensures affordability for all sections of society. By paying a small amount, anyone can become a member and avail the benefits. Under the tagline 'For the Whole Family, Great Value, Trusted Care,' it aims to provide comprehensive healthcare benefits to all members."
He added that cardholders can avail benefits at KMC Hospital Attavar, KMC Hospital Dr B R Ambedkar Circle (Jyothi Circle), Durga Sanjeevani Manipal Hospital Kateel, Kasturba Hospital Manipal, Dr T M A Pai Hospital Udupi, Dr T M A Pai Rotary Hospital Karkala, and Manipal Hospital Goa, as well as two dental colleges – Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal and Mangaluru respectively.
Dr Shivananda Prabhu, chief administrative officer (CAO) of Durga Sanjeevani Manipal Hospital, Kateel, explained the membership structure: "For the one-year scheme, individual membership is available at Rs 350. Family membership, which includes the individual, their spouse, and any number of unmarried children below 25 years, is priced at Rs 700. The Family Plus membership, covering the individual, their spouse, any number of unmarried children below 25 years, and up to four parents including in-laws, is offered at Rs 900.
"For the two-year scheme, individual membership is offered at ?600, family membership at Rs 950, and Family Plus membership at Rs 1,100. This structured approach ensures that comprehensive healthcare is accessible and affordable for individuals and families alike."
Dr. Deepak Madi, deputy medical superintendent of KMC Hospital Attavar, said, "The Manipal Arogya Card holder can avail discounts of up to 50% on consultation, up to 20% on laboratory investigations, up to 20% on radiology investigations such as CT, MRI, ultrasound, X-ray, etc., up to 10% on OPD medicines purchased from hospital pharmacies, and up to 25% concession on inpatient bills excluding consumables and packages across various ward categories. As there is no upper age limit for enrolment, this scheme has helped many senior citizens with their healthcare needs."
Rakesh, senior manager – sales and marketing, said, “For over 24 years, we have been dedicated to providing quality healthcare services to millions at discounted rates. The media’s support in promoting enrolment has been instrumental in reaching a wider audience. The public can obtain the Manipal Health Card at KMC Hospital Attavar, KMC Hospital Jyothi, Durga Sanjeevani Manipal Hospital Kateel, and through authorized agents across Dakshina Kannada district and Northern Kerala.”