In a bid to enhance patient convenience and streamline payment processes, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) has introduced a cashless payment system through the ‘AIIMS Smart Card.’ According to a statement issued on January 24, cash payments will no longer be accepted at any counters, except for the designated ‘AIIMS Smart Card’ top-up counters, which will be operationalized in multiple locations and operate on a 24×7 basis.
The ‘AIIMS Smart Card’ initiative, which commenced as a pilot project in select departments, is set to be fully implemented starting March 31. AIIMS Director Dr. M. Srinivas referred to a previous office memorandum issued on November 17, 2022, which outlined the collaboration with the State Bank of India to launch the ‘AIIMS Smart Card’ facility for patients and their attendants, with the effective date initially set for April 15, 2023.
The move towards a digital payments mode aims to improve patient convenience, eliminating the need for individuals to stand in queues for various payments, including investigations, procedures, and cafeteria expenses. The directive emphasizes the need for the ‘AIIMS Smart Card’ to be operationalized across AIIMS New Delhi for all payment transactions by the specified deadline of March 31, marking a significant shift towards a more efficient and cashless payment system within the premier health institute.
