By NE NOW NEWS
Aizawl: The Mizoram government on Wednesday launched an online medical referral system under the Mizoram Universal Health Care Scheme (MUHCS) to streamline healthcare services and expedite referral procedures for patients requiring treatment outside the state.
The digital platform, developed primarily for government employees, was inaugurated by Health Minister Lalrinpuii in Aizawl.
Speaking at the launch, the Minister described the initiative as a major step towards strengthening healthcare governance and improving public access to medical services through digital technology.
“The Online Medical Referral System must be implemented sincerely and efficiently so that it serves its intended purpose,” she said, stressing the need for timely handling of emergency referral cases.
She also highlighted the expanding adoption of digital healthcare services in Mizoram, noting that more than 46,000 families have already registered under the MUHCS online registration system.
Officials said the portal was jointly developed by the Directorate of Hospital and Medical Education (DHME) and the Mizoram State e-Governance Society (MSeGS).
The system aims to address delays faced by government employees seeking referral permissions for treatment outside Mizoram, particularly those residing outside Aizawl district.
Previously, Medical Referral Boards functioned only in Aizawl and Lunglei, forcing patients to physically process documents through multiple offices before obtaining approval for out-of-state treatment.
Under the new arrangement, District Screening Committees (DSCs) have been set up in all district hospitals to examine referral cases locally. Their recommendations will be coordinated with Medical Referral Boards in Aizawl and Lunglei through video conferencing, significantly reducing delays, officials said.
Applicants can now apply online for provisional referral permission through the portal by paying a fee of Rs 20.
Government employees will be able to upload forwarding letters and medical board documents directly through the platform before reporting to the Mizoram State Health Care Society (MSHCS) with provisional approval.
Officials said beneficiaries under the general category of MUHCS would continue to report to MSHCS with the required documents.
However, as final approval still requires physical verification, patients or their relatives will need to visit the DHME office during working hours.