Kerala Approves Universal Health Coverage Scheme for Residents

Kerala Government has approved a new Universal Health Coverage scheme aimed at expanding healthcare protection to residents who currently fall outside existing insurance programs.

The decision, cleared by the state cabinet, is part of Kerala’s broader push to ensure every resident has access to affordable medical care and financial protection against rising treatment costs.

The newly approved Universal Health Coverage initiative is designed to address the gap faced by the “missing middle,” people who do not qualify for government welfare health programs but also struggle to afford private insurance. State officials said the move will help bring these residents under a structured health protection system and reduce out-of-pocket spending on hospital care.

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Kerala already runs several health support programs, including the Karunya Arogya Suraksha Padhathi (KASP), the Karunya Benevolent Fund, and the MEDISEP insurance scheme for government employees. However, a section of the population remains outside these plans. The new policy aims to extend coverage to those left out, ensuring broader access to treatment across public and empaneled healthcare facilities.

The cabinet approval follows nearly a year of consultations and policy discussions within the health department. The initiative is being implemented under the direction of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan as part of the state’s long-term healthcare strategy.

With this step, Kerala is moving closer to its goal of building a comprehensive healthcare system that protects all residents. Officials say the expanded coverage framework is expected to strengthen the state’s public health network while making quality treatment more accessible and affordable for families across Kerala.