Jaipur: Cashless medicine distribution under the Rajasthan Govt Health Scheme ( RGHS) may be suspended at OPD pharmacies across the state from Wednesday, with private hospitals and pharmacy units citing prolonged non-payment of dues.The Rajasthan Alliance of Hospital Associations (RAHA) said payments under the scheme have been pending for seven to nine months, worsening over the past three to four months and pushing service providers into a financial crisis. Many hospitals and pharmacy operators are struggling to sustain routine operations, it said. A RAHA representative said the disruption could affect access to essential medicines for RGHS beneficiaries. The state’s pharmacy union also expressed concern, backing a coordinated effort with the govt to resolve the issue and safeguard patients. RAHA said delays in reimbursements have led to mounting pressure from suppliers and dealers, affecting procurement and disrupting drug supply at several centres. Under these circumstances, continuing cashless medicine distribution has become unviable, it added. The association said the decision was taken as a last resort after informing beneficiary representatives. A meeting was held in advance, particularly considering the likely impact on pensioners.
