New Delhi: All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Delhi has announced the expansion of its ‘AIIMS Smart Card’ system to cover all departments by March 31, 2024. Initially introduced on a pilot basis in select departments, the smart card is set to become the sole mode of payment for investigations and procedures, excluding electronic payments through UPI, debit cards, and credit cards.
According to an official statement released on Wednesday by AIIMS Delhi, the decision aligns with a directive issued on November 17, 2022, recommending the initiation of the ‘AIIMS Smart Card’ facility for patients and attendants in collaboration with the State Bank of India (SBI).
The primary objective is to transition to a digital payment mode and enhance patient convenience by eliminating the need for queuing at various counters for payments related to medical services and cafeteria transactions.
The official order, issued by AIIMS Delhi Director Dr. M Srinivas, expressed the urgency of adopting an integrated digital payment system. It cites a recent incident at a similar institution where an outsourced service provider manipulated discharge bills, resulting in financial losses and mental distress for patients.
The move to a 100% integrated digital payment system aims to prevent such malpractices and ensure transparent and auditable financial transactions within the institute.
As part of the implementation, ‘AIIMS Smart Card’ top-up counters will be established at multiple locations, operational 24×7, and will be the exclusive points for cash top-ups. After the full rollout, no cash payments will be accepted at any counters except for the designated ‘AIIMS Smart Card’ top-up counters.
The official order informs that patients and attendants will not be required to visit central registration counters for payments. All payment endpoints will be strategically installed near-patient locations, facilitating seamless transactions and minimising inconvenience for individuals seeking medical services at AIIMS Delhi.
