New Delhi, Aug. 18 -- The Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) has clarified how beneficiaries should undertake follow-up consultations, diagnostic tests and investigations at empanelled hospitals, including when a referral is required for reimbursement.

According to an ET report, the clarification follows a request from the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), which had flagged recurring issues while scrutinising medical reimbursement claims. The UPSC issued an office memorandum dated 11 August 2026 setting out the clarifications on existing CGHS guidelines.

The clarification is relevant to central government employees, pensioners and other eligible CGHS beneficiaries.

If a CGHS beneficiary receives a primary consultation at an ...