The All India Institute of Medical
Sciences or AIIMS is set to introduce the ‘AIIMS Smart Card’ facility for all
patient transactions by March 31, marking a shift towards a fully integrated
digital payment system. The initiative aims to enhance patient convenience,
prevent overcharging, and ensure transparent and auditable accounting practices
within the institution.
The decision comes in response to recent
reports of financial misconduct at a similar institution, where an outsourced
service provider tampered with discharge bills, causing patients financial loss
and distress. To mitigate such risks, AIIMS is pushing for a comprehensive
transition to digital payments.
According to an order signed by AIIMS
Director M Srinivas, the ‘AIIMS Smart Card’ will be the exclusive method for
payments, and no cash payments will be accepted at any counters, except for
designated ‘Smart Card’ top-up counters.
The ‘AIIMS Smart Card’ has undergone a
successful pilot phase in certain departments. The card will be the primary
mode of payment for all investigations and procedures, in addition to
electronic payment options such as UPI, debit cards, and credit cards.
The order emphasizes that payment
endpoints installed closest to the patient’s location will accept all
transactions, eliminating the need for patients or their attendants to visit
central registration counters. The ‘AIIMS Smart Card’ top-up counters will be
strategically placed within OPDs, hospitals, and centers, operating 24×7 to
facilitate seamless transactions.
