Awareness and Utilization of Ayushman Bharat Scheme Among Non-Medical Personnel in a Medical College Hospital in Bengaluru: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Ayushman Bharat- Prime minister’s Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) aims to ensure financial security and improve access to specialized healthcare in India. However, gaps in awareness and utilization persist. This study assessed awareness, utilization and associated socio-demographic factors among non-medical personnel.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out among 110 non-medical personnel in a medical college hospital in Bengaluru Rural District, Karnataka, from August to December 2025 using consecutive sampling. We used a pre-tested structured questionnaire as data collection tool which covered socio-demographic details, awareness, and utilization of AB-PMJAY. Awareness was scored and categorized as adequate (≥ 50%) or inadequate (< 50%). JAMOVI software version 2.7.17 was used to analyze data, like Descriptive statistics and Pearson’s Chi-square test.

Results: The mean age of participants was 34.69 ± 10.17 years. 52.7% had adequate awareness of AB-PMJAY. Most participants had heard of the scheme and knew the eligibility criteria; knowledge of specific benefits such as coverage amount was limited. Although 66.4% reported possession of an AB-PMJAY card in their family, only 8.2% had utilized its services. No significant association between socio-demographic variables and awareness was found.

Conclusion: Awareness of AB-PMJAY was moderate, but utilization was low, indicating a significant awareness-utilization gap. Strengthening targeted information, education, and communication strategies is essential to improve effective utilization.