Central government employees living or posted outside the CGHS-covered area can now make a one-time choice to join the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), even if there is no CGHS Wellness Centre in their city.

NEW DELHI: Central government employees living or posted outside the CGHS-covered area can now make a one-time choice to join the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), even if there is no CGHS Wellness Centre in their city.The Union health ministry has removed the geographical restriction that earlier prevented eligible employees outside the prescribed CGHS area from opting for the scheme. The move will benefit employees residing or posted outside the prescribed coverage area.Earlier, an employee’s eligibility for CGHS depended on where they lived or were posted. Where a 5-km limit was prescribed, coverage was linked to the area around a CGHS Wellness Centre. Employees outside the prescribed area could not opt for CGHS.Under the new rule, an eligible employee residing or posted outside the CGHS-covered area can opt for the scheme by paying the prescribed CGHS contribution and meeting the other eligibility conditions.However, the choice is a one-time decision and will be final and binding. It will also apply to all eligible dependents of the employee.Employees opting for CGHS cannot simultaneously claim medical benefits under the Central Services (Medical Attendance) Rules, 1944. Their eligible family members will also have to be covered under the same system.The employee will have to continue paying the prescribed CGHS subscription irrespective of where they subsequently reside or are posted. No travelling or daily allowance will be admissible for treatment or procurement of medicines under CGHS.

The new provision does not give employees already residing or posted within a CGHS-covered area the option to shift from CGHS to medical facilities under the CS(MA) Rules.Employees who do not exercise the new option will continue to be governed by the CS(MA) Rules, wherever applicable.The new provisions have come into force with immediate effect. The ministry has issued an option and undertaking form for employees who wish to opt for CGHS.