When employees retire from Indian Railways, they often worry about medical expenses. The government understands this concern. That is why it introduced a healthcare scheme designed for former employees. The RELHS full form in railway is Retired Employees Liberalized Health Scheme, and it plays a crucial role in supporting retired railway staff.
This scheme allows retired personnel to receive medical treatment even after they stop working. It mirrors the medical benefits that active railway employees enjoy. So, if you are nearing retirement or know someone who is, this article will help you understand everything about RELHS.
What Is the RELHS Full Form in Railway?
The term RELHS full form in railway stands for Retired Employees Liberalized Health Scheme. It is a healthcare initiative under Indian Railways meant for retirees and their dependents. Those who choose this scheme gain access to health care through railway hospitals and health units.
The goal of RELHS is to offer continuous and cashless treatment. Retired employees can visit railway hospitals for checkups, medicine, surgeries, and tests. The treatment under this scheme is almost the same as that available to current employees.
Also Read: Innocams Epic A Detailed Guide
Eligibility Criteria for RELHS
Not everyone can simply join RELHS. There are certain eligibility conditions. The scheme is primarily for railway staff who retire normally after completing their service.
To qualify, a person must:
- Retire from Indian Railways with pensionary benefits.
- Complete at least 20 years of service.
- Apply for RELHS membership before or at the time of retirement.
Also, spouses and dependents of the retiree are covered under this scheme. They can also receive medical care under RELHS benefits.
How to Enroll in RELHS
When employees retire, they are usually asked if they wish to enroll in RELHS. To enroll, one must pay a one-time contribution. This fee depends on the last basic pay of the employee. Once paid, the scheme provides lifetime healthcare support.
Here’s a table showing the one-time contribution amounts:
| Last Basic Pay at Retirement | One-Time Contribution (₹) |
|---|---|
| Up to ₹5,000 | ₹30,000 |
| ₹5,001 – ₹10,000 | ₹45,000 |
| ₹10,001 – ₹15,000 | ₹60,000 |
| ₹15,001 – ₹20,000 | ₹75,000 |
| Above ₹20,000 | ₹90,000 |
Once this amount is paid, the retired employee and their dependents can access free medical treatment for life at railway medical facilities.
Benefits of RELHS for Retired Railway Employees
Continued Medical Care After Retirement
The RELHS full form in railway means Retired Employees Liberalized Health Scheme, and it offers many strong benefits. Retired employees no longer worry about large hospital bills. Indian Railways gives them free medical care even after retirement.
Free Hospital Treatment
One of the biggest benefits is free treatment at railway hospitals. Retirees can get checkups, surgeries, and medicine without paying. This support helps them live with peace and health.
Lifetime Validity of Services
Another key benefit is lifetime access to health services. Once enrolled, the retiree and their dependents get help forever. There is no need to pay again in the future.
Cashless Emergency Coverage
Cashless treatment during emergencies is also included in this scheme. If a retiree is taken to an empaneled private hospital, they won’t pay upfront. Indian Railways handles the cost directly with the hospital.
Benefits for Family Members
The scheme also covers family members of the retired employee. A spouse and dependent children can use the same benefits. They get the same quality of treatment as the retiree.
Free Medicines and Tests
Medicines and diagnostic tests are also free under RELHS. Retirees can get x-rays, blood tests, and medicines from railway health centers. This removes a major cost burden from their lives.
Medical Support Across India
RELHS allows treatment in other zones during travel or visits. If someone falls ill while visiting another city, they can still use railway hospitals. All they need is their RELHS card.
A Promise to Retired Workers
The RELHS full form in railway shows that Indian Railways respects its former workers. It supports them even after their working days are over. That promise makes a big difference in their lives.
Also Read: Gelamento a Sweet Dessert A Delightful Journey
Important Documents Needed for RELHS
To join RELHS, the retiree must submit the correct documents. Submitting these ensures that membership is processed without delay. Most retirees apply just before or immediately after retirement.
Required documents include:
- Copy of Pension Payment Order (PPO)
- Aadhaar card of retiree and dependents
- Medical Identity Card Application Form
- Last pay certificate
- Photographs of retiree and dependents
Once all documents are verified and payment is made, the retired employee receives a RELHS medical card. This card must be shown whenever the retiree seeks treatment.
Use of RELHS Full Form in Railway Medical Card
After enrollment, the retiree receives a RELHS medical ID card. This card is proof of their eligibility for treatment. When they visit railway hospitals, this card must be shown to access services.
In cases of emergency, especially when visiting empaneled private hospitals, this card plays a vital role. With it, the hospital confirms the retiree’s entitlement and provides cashless admission and treatment.
Can RELHS Be Used Outside the Home Zone?
One common question is whether RELHS can be used in any city. The answer is yes, but there are conditions. While RELHS is mainly used in the retiree’s home zone, in emergencies, treatment can be availed in other zones too.
If a retiree is traveling or staying in another city and falls ill, they can visit the nearest railway hospital. They must carry their RELHS medical card. Treatment is generally offered as long as facilities are available.
Also Read: Binbex Crypto Exchange
Difference Between RELHS and CGHS
Some people confuse RELHS with CGHS (Central Government Health Scheme). Both are government-run, but they serve different groups. CGHS serves all central government retirees, while RELHS is exclusively for Indian Railway retirees.
Here’s a comparison table to make it clearer:
| Feature | RELHS | CGHS |
|---|---|---|
| For Whom | Retired Railway Employees | All Central Govt Retirees |
| Managed By | Indian Railways | Ministry of Health |
| Hospitals Covered | Railway Hospitals | CGHS Empaneled Hospitals |
| One-Time Fee | Yes | Yes |
| Cashless Facility | Available in emergencies | Available in emergencies |
So, while both serve similar medical purposes, their coverage and management differ.
Why RELHS Matters in Today’s Time
Healthcare is expensive and often unpredictable. A single surgery or long-term treatment can wipe out a retiree’s savings. That’s why schemes like RELHS are crucial. They offer dignity and financial safety in retirement.
The RELHS full form in railway is more than just a health program. It is a promise from Indian Railways to stand by its employees, even after they retire. In a country with limited social security for elders, RELHS is a shining example of government-backed support.
Also Read: Bfg098 Innovation, Applications and Potential
Conclusion
The RELHS full form in railway stands for a valuable promise made to retired employees. It ensures medical care and emotional comfort during old age. This scheme plays a crucial role in helping railway staff live a secure life after retirement.
Thousands of retired workers have benefited from RELHS over the years. The Indian Railways continues to support its past employees with great responsibility. With increasing health care costs, such a scheme can save lives and protect families from financial hardship.
If you are planning to retire from Indian Railways, make sure to opt into RELHS at the right time. It could be the best retirement decision you make.
