CGHS Reimbursement Policy 2025: Big Update on Buying Medicines Without NAC till 31 May 2025
Keywords: CGHS medicine reimbursement, CGHS 2025 update, buy medicines without NAC, CGHS new portal, CGHS digital system, CGHS prescription policy, Central Government Health Scheme
CGHS Reimbursement Latest Policy (AI generated image)
Click to Download Order
✅ CGHS Policy Change: Buy Medicines Without NAC Till May 31, 2025
In a major update for Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) beneficiaries, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has announced a crucial change in the medicine reimbursement process. From April 28 to May 31, 2025, beneficiaries can buy OPD medicines from the open market without needing a Non-Availability Certificate (NAC).
This move provides much-needed relief to users who have faced issues in receiving prescribed medicines due to technical glitches following the shift to the new Health Management Information System (HMIS).
🏥 Why the CGHS Reimbursement Policy Changed
The new decision was prompted by complaints from beneficiaries who experienced delays and difficulties in medicine procurement during the digital migration of the CGHS system. To address this, the government has temporarily waived the NAC requirement, making it easier for patients to access treatment without interruptions.
💊 What is NAC and Why It’s No Longer Needed (Temporarily)
The Non-Availability Certificate (NAC) was traditionally required when a prescribed drug was not available at a CGHS wellness centre. It allowed beneficiaries to claim reimbursement for medicines bought externally. However, from April 28 to May 31, 2025, this step is no longer necessary if you have a valid doctor’s prescription.
🌐 New CGHS Portal and Digital Transformation in 2025
As part of the digital upgrade, the CGHS has shifted its Health Management Information System (HMIS) from the NIC platform to the C-DAC platform, effective April 28, 2025. This new digital infrastructure aims to streamline outpatient services and reduce administrative delays.
Along with this, the official CGHS websites have changed:
-
❌ Old Sites (Deactivated):
-
✅ New Official Portal:
All CGHS services, including prescription tracking, appointment scheduling, and reimbursements, are now managed through the new portal.
🧾 Reimbursement Process: How and Where to Submit Medicine Claims
To get reimbursement for medicines purchased from the open market, beneficiaries must submit:
-
A valid prescription from an authorized doctor
-
The purchase bill from the pharmacy
Submit your claim here based on your category:
-
Pensioners: CGHS Additional Director (city/zone) through the Chief Medical Officer (CMO)
-
Serving Central Government Employees: Submit to your own department
-
MPs: Via Rajya Sabha or Lok Sabha Secretariat
-
Autonomous Bodies & Air India Beneficiaries: Submit through the relevant administrative office
⚙️ End of a 20-Year-Old System: Fully Digital CGHS is Here
The CGHS software launched in 2005 has officially been retired. On April 26, 2025, wellness centres closed temporarily to prepare for the upgrade. As of April 28, all services have migrated to the fully digital CGHS system, offering faster service, improved transparency, and better user experience.
📅 Important Dates to Remember
-
Digital System Launch: April 28, 2025
-
NAC Waiver Period: April 28 to May 31, 2025
-
New Portal in Use: www.cghs.mohfw.gov.in
📝 Conclusion: What CGHS Beneficiaries Should Do Now
If you’re a CGHS cardholder, make sure to:
-
Use the new CGHS portal for all healthcare services.
-
Keep your prescription and medicine bill safe if buying medicines from outside.
-
Submit your reimbursement claim through the correct channel before the deadline.
This policy update is a temporary but important relief to millions of CGHS users and is part of a broader move toward efficient, digital-first healthcare services in India.
Looking for more updates on CGHS and government healthcare policies?
📌 Bookmark this blog and subscribe for the latest health news and digital transition updates.