What you will learn
- How the CGHS and ECHS cashless admission process works at Max Hospital Mohali
- Which implant types are covered — and what happens when you want a premium option
- Exactly what documents to bring for your first consultation
For retired government employees and defence personnel, CGHS and ECHS are the most valuable benefits they carry — but navigating the paperwork for a major surgery like hip replacement can feel overwhelming, especially when already dealing with pain.
Max Hospital Mohali (Phase 6, Sector 65) is empanelled with both CGHS and ECHS. Hip replacement is a covered procedure under both schemes. The process is more straightforward than most patients expect.
Is Max Hospital Mohali Empanelled with CGHS and ECHS?
Yes. Max Hospital Mohali is empanelled with both the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) and the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) for in-patient surgical procedures including total hip replacement.
Empanelment means eligible beneficiaries receive cashless treatment — the hospital bills the scheme directly. You do not pay upfront and claim reimbursement later; the claim is settled between the hospital and the scheme.
What CGHS and ECHS Cover for Hip Replacement
Under CGHS, total hip replacement (cemented and uncemented) is covered. The approved package rate covers surgery, hospitalisation, implant at CGHS-approved rates, and standard post-operative care. ECHS covers hip replacement under its Standard Treatment Guidelines with similar structure.
Important on implants: Both CGHS and ECHS have approved rates for specific implant categories. Premium imported implants — particularly ceramic-on-ceramic bearing surfaces — may not be fully covered. If you want an implant above the approved rate, you pay the difference; the rest of the procedure remains covered. Dr. Gupta’s team will provide a clear breakdown at consultation.
The Admission Process: Step by Step
- Consultation with Dr. Sandeep Gupta — Bring your CGHS/ECHS card, recent hip X-rays, and any previous treatment records.
- Pre-authorisation request — Once Dr. Gupta recommends surgery, the hospital’s CGHS/ECHS desk submits the pre-authorisation request.
- Approval — CGHS: 3–7 working days from your wellness centre. ECHS: through your polyclinic or MH referral system.
- Admission and surgery — On the approved date you are admitted; the hospital files the claim directly with the scheme.
- Discharge and follow-up — Follow-up appointments are covered under the same scheme at the outpatient level.
Ready to start your CGHS or ECHS pre-authorisation? Dr. Gupta’s team handles the paperwork.
Documents to Bring for Your First Consultation
- CGHS card / ECHS smart card (beneficiary and dependent cards)
- Referral letter from your CGHS wellness centre or ECHS polyclinic
- Recent X-rays: weight-bearing AP pelvis and lateral hip view (both hips)
- MRI or CT scan if already done
- List of current medications and dosages
- Previous orthopaedic records including prior injections or physiotherapy
- Aadhaar or government ID for identity verification
Common Questions from CGHS and ECHS Patients
Can I choose my implant? Within approved categories, yes. If you prefer an implant outside the covered category, you pay the difference — the rest of the procedure remains fully covered.
Does the scheme cover robotic surgery? Robotic-assisted hip replacement falls under the total hip replacement package code in most frameworks. Coverage for the robotic surcharge depends on current CGHS/ECHS notifications. The billing team will confirm at pre-authorisation.
Are dependents covered? Yes. CGHS and ECHS cover eligible dependents — typically spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents — under the primary beneficiary’s card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be admitted without prior approval in an emergency?
Emergency procedures can be performed without pre-authorisation; the patient claims reimbursement afterward. Elective hip replacement requires pre-authorisation for cashless admission. Always get pre-authorisation before elective admission.
Is bilateral hip replacement covered under CGHS?
Both hips can be replaced under CGHS — either in separate admissions or staged. Each hip is treated as a separate procedure. Simultaneous bilateral surgery in one admission may be subject to specific approval requirements.
What is the CGHS package rate for hip replacement?
CGHS package rates vary by hospital category (NABH-accredited vs non-NABH) and implant type. Max Hospital Mohali is NABH-accredited, attracting the higher rate. Current rates will be confirmed by the CGHS desk during pre-authorisation.
Can I bring an attendant?
Yes. One attendant is typically permitted, and meals may be covered depending on ward category. The CGHS desk will confirm attendant provisions for your specific ward choice.