Chandigarh, July 27, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Punjab’s Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana (MMSY) has provided cashless treatment for chronic lung diseases, respiratory conditions and thoracic surgeries to 14,032 patients in the first six months of 2026, with treatment claims worth ₹37.30 crore, according to data released by the State Health Agency (SHA), Punjab.
The figures highlight a growing burden of respiratory illnesses among adults and senior citizens, with patients aged between 36 and 60 years and those above 60 years accounting for more than 80 per cent of all cases covered under the scheme.
The data, covering the period from January 8 to July 21, 2026, shows that 5,559 people in the 36-60 age group received respiratory care, while 5,659 senior citizens also required hospital-based treatment. Besides these, 2,522 young adults and 292 children received specialised care for chronic lung diseases and related thoracic procedures.
The scheme, launched under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has enabled patients to access treatment without facing the immediate financial burden of hospital expenses. Officials said the cashless facility has helped many patients seek timely medical intervention instead of delaying care due to cost concerns.
Gender-wise analysis showed that 8,345 men availed treatment under the scheme at a cost of ₹22.79 crore, while 5,684 women received care amounting to ₹14.50 crore. Three beneficiaries from the other gender category also received treatment benefits.
The monthly trend reflected consistent demand for respiratory services. Treatment cases increased from 1,332 in January to 2,509 in April, which was the highest number recorded during the period. June witnessed the highest treatment expenditure at ₹6.73 crore, indicating the complexity of cases requiring medical intervention.
Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh said respiratory symptoms such as persistent cough and breathlessness should not be ignored, as chronic lung diseases often progress gradually and may become severe before patients seek medical help.
“Breathlessness should never be ignored. Early treatment can save lungs, lives and livelihoods,” Dr. Balbir Singh said, while urging people, especially smokers, industrial workers and those exposed to dust and pollution, to consult doctors when symptoms persist.
The minister also emphasised preventive measures, including avoiding tobacco, reducing exposure to polluted environments, using workplace protection and undergoing regular health check-ups for people with respiratory risk factors.
Health experts maintain that early diagnosis and timely treatment remain crucial in preventing complications and reducing the need for major thoracic surgeries.
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