Punjab's Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana Covers Respiratory Treatment For 14,032 Patients In 6 Months

Published 27 July 2026 · health

Punjab's Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana Covers Respiratory Treatment For 14,032 Patients In 6 Months Published By, Last Updated: July 27, 2026, 19:53 IST Gender-wise, 8,345

Punjab's Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana Covers Respiratory Treatment For 14,032 Patients In 6 Months Published By, Last Updated: July 27, 2026, 19:53 IST Gender-wise, 8,345 men underwent treatment worth Rs 22.79 crore, while 5,684 women received treatment valued at Rs 14.50 crore. Rapid Read AI-generated image used for representation Punjab’s Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana (MMSY) has provided cashless treatment for chronic lung diseases and respiratory conditions to 14,032 patients between January 8 and July 21, 2026, according to data released by the State Health Agency (SHA). During the si month period, the scheme covered treatment worth Rs 37.30 crore, helping thousands of patients receive hospital care without worrying about the cost of treatment. The latest data suggests that chronic lung diseases are no longer affecting only the elderly. Adults aged 36 to 60 years accounted for 5,559 treatment cases, while 5,659 senior citizens also received hospital care. Together, these two age groups made up more than 80 per cent of all respiratory treatment episodes covered under the scheme.

Another 2,522 young adults and 292 children also benefited from specialised respiratory care. Gender-wise, 8,345 men underwent treatment worth Rs 22.79 crore, while 5,684 women received treatment valued at Rs 14.50 crore. Three beneficiaries from the ‘Other’ gender category also availed cashless healthcare under the scheme. The figures also show a steady demand for respiratory care throughout the reporting period. The number of treatment cases increased from 1,332 in January to 2,509 in April, the highest monthly figure during the six months. Although June recorded 2,004 treatment cases, it registered the highest treatment value of Rs 6.73 crore, indicating that more patients required complex and expensive respiratory care. Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh said the figures underline the need for greater awareness about respiratory health. “The data highlights the urgent need for greater awareness about respiratory health. People often ignore a persistent cough or breathlessness, believing it is temporary or simply part of ageing.

Unfortunately, chronic lung diseases progress silently. By the time many patients seek medical care, the damage is already significant. Breathlessness should never be ignored. Early treatment can save lungs, lives and livelihoods," he added. The minister urged people, especially smokers, industrial workers and those exposed to dust and pollution, to seek medical advice if symptoms persist. He also stressed the importance of avoiding tobacco, reducing exposure to polluted environments and undergoing regular medical check-ups for people living with chronic respiratory conditions. According to the Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), chronic lung diseases usually develop gradually and rarely disappear on their own. Early diagnosis, timely medication, pulmonary rehabilitation and, in severe cases, thoracic surgery can help slow disease progression and improve patient outcomes. Health experts also emphasise that quitting tobacco, reducing exposure to air pollution, following workplace safety measures and seeking timely medical care remain the most effective ways to prevent severe lung disease.