Awareness and Utilisation of Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana in Rural Bengaluru, India: A Mixed-methods Study

Introduction: Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) is India’s flagship government-funded health insurance scheme aimed at reducing out-of-pocket expenditure. This study assessed awareness and utilisation of AB-PMJAY and explored barriers and facilitators among rural residents of Bengaluru. Methodology: A community-based sequential explanatory mixed-methods study was conducted in 25 villages under the Primary Health Centre, Sarjapur, Bengaluru. Quantitative data were collected from 400 adults using a semi-structured interview schedule, followed by focus group discussions and key informant interviews. The manuscript was prepared in accordance with the Good Reporting of Mixed Methods Studies (GRAMMS) guidelines. Results: While 54% were aware of AB-PMJAY, only 30% knew its benefits, with 48.2% possessing a card and just 3.5% utilising it. Awareness was significantly associated with residence status, BPL card possession and voting participation ( P < 0.05). Qualitative findings revealed enrolment difficulties, limited knowledge of empanelled hospitals and preference for private facilities due to perceived better quality of care. Conclusion: Despite moderate awareness, utilisation of AB-PMJAY remains low due to information gaps and implementation barriers, underscoring the need for targeted IEC strategies and improved scheme delivery.