The ongoing debate surrounding mobile app-based registration for patients in Tripura’s major hospitals has stirred confusion, particularly regarding the challenges faced by poor and uneducated patients. In response, health authorities have issued clarifications to address the concerns.
Officials confirmed that no NGO named ‘ABHA’ is registered or engaged in any of the state’s hospitals. They emphasized that no NGO staff has been authorized to generate OPD slips in government health facilities, dismissing claims that such organizations are handling registrations.
On the issue of consultation fees, the Health Department clarified that AGMC & GBP Hospital and IGM Hospital continue to provide OPD consultations free of cost. At Tripura Medical College (TMC), patients are charged a nominal fee of Rs. 30 per consultation, with no charges for follow-up visits.
Authorities further highlighted that, in addition to the ABHA counter, multiple regular OPD registration counters remain operational across all government hospitals. This ensures that patients have a choice between traditional counters and the app-based system, safeguarding accessibility for those unable to use smartphones or digital tools.
The Department also addressed complaints of delays in registration at TMC. Officials explained that the hospital still operates on an older version of the eHospital software, which is not cloud-based. Both TMC and NIC Tripura have been repeatedly urged to upgrade the system, and meetings have been held to push the transition. Despite these issues, authorities stated that online registrations usually take only 5–10 minutes, after which patients can directly proceed to the doctor’s chamber.
Reassuring the public, health authorities stressed that efforts are ongoing to improve and modernize hospital registration processes. Special focus is being given to reducing inconvenience for economically weaker patients and those unfamiliar with mobile applications.
The department maintained that the app-based registration is an optional facility designed to reduce waiting time and streamline services, but it is not mandatory. Patients can continue to access healthcare through the existing manual counters without difficulty.
With these clarifications, officials urged the public not to be misled by false claims and assured that Tripura’s health facilities remain committed to providing accessible and affordable healthcare for all sections of society.