Why Eye Care Matters in Tamil Nadu — A Ground Reality
Across Tamil Nadu, vision problems are one of the leading causes of disability, especially among the elderly and economically vulnerable. Cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) are widespread but largely treatable, if detected early and treated affordably.
According to Tamil Nadu’s Health Department reports, cataract surgeries account for nearly 60% of all vision-restoring procedures offered under the Chief Minister’s Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme (CMCHIS). With rising cases of diabetes and hypertension, the need for retinal and glaucoma care is also increasing, not just in metro cities but in districts like Chengalpattu, where access gaps still exist.
Fact Check: As per a study presented at the Tamil Nadu Ophthalmic Association (TNOA) 2024 conference, rural Chengalpattu reported higher rates of untreated refractive errors and delayed cataract surgeries, mainly due to lack of awareness and cost barriers.
That’s precisely what CMCHIS tries to solve.
Read this blog in Tamil செங்கல்பட்டில் சிறந்த கண் மருத்துவமனைகள் – தமிழக முதலமைச்சரின் விரிவான மருத்துவக் காப்பீட்டுத் திட்டத்தின் கீழ் (CMCHIS)
How CMCHIS Helps Eye Patients
If your family holds a smart ration card and your annual income is under ₹1.2 lakh (or meets the updated CMCHIS income ceiling), you are eligible for free eye surgery and treatment at empanelled private and government hospitals. This includes:
- Cataract surgery with lens implantation
- Treatment for diabetic retinopathy
- Retina and corneal procedures
- Glaucoma surgeries
- Pediatric ophthalmology in select hospitals
The costs, which usually run into thousands, are fully covered under the scheme at approved hospitals. You can read our complete guide on CMCHIS eligibility, application, and hospitals in Chengalpattu to understand how the process works.
CMCHIS-Approved Eye Hospitals in Chengalpattu
Let’s now explore some of the top hospitals offering eye care under the CM Health Insurance Scheme in Chengalpattu district:
1. Sankara Eye Hospital, Kancheepuram
What makes it special:
Sankara is one of the most trusted names in eye care in Tamil Nadu. Their Kancheepuram centre, accessible to Chengalpattu residents, offers cataract surgery, retina care, pediatric eye services, and vision restoration, all under CMCHIS.
Address: No. 1, Sankara Eye Street, Enathur, Kancheepuram – 631561
Specialty Focus: Cataracts, retina, glaucoma, pediatric eye care
CMCHIS Code: S2
They follow a high-volume surgical model, with free care provided to thousands of CMCHIS beneficiaries every year.
2. Lions Hemodialysis & Eye Centre (Eye Wing), Chengalpattu
What makes it special:
Though known primarily for dialysis, the Lions-run centre also houses a basic ophthalmology unit for screening and early diagnosis of common eye issues, especially among diabetic patients.
Address: Lions Club Building, GST Road, Near Government Hospital, Chengalpattu – 603001
Specialty Focus: Diabetic eye screening, referral for advanced surgery
CMCHIS Code: S2 (Dialysis unit, eye care varies)
They often refer complex surgeries to partner hospitals like Sankara or Rajan Eye Care (Chennai), but they help with initial screening and CMCHIS referral paperwork, which is often a bottleneck for patients.
Read about Fertility & Maternity Hospitals in Chengalpattu under CMCHIS
Common Eye Conditions Covered Under CMCHIS
Here are some eye-related procedures that CMCHIS covers if you’re eligible:
Condition Covered Under CMCHIS? Notes
Cataract surgery Yes Includes lens implantation
Diabetic retinopathy laser Yes In select hospitals
Glaucoma treatment Yes, Surgery/meds based on severity
Retinal detachment: Yes. Available at specialty centers
Pediatric squint correction Yes with pre-approval in child cases
Eye cancer diagnosis/treatment Limited Requires referral to city hospitals
If you’re unsure whether your procedure is covered, ask the CMCHIS helpdesk at any approved hospital.
How to Avail Free Eye Treatment in Chengalpattu
- Check Your Eligibility
Ensure your family is registered with a smart ration card and eligible under the income criteria.
- Visit a CMCHIS Hospital with Eye Care
Walk into an empanelled hospital like Sankara Eye Hospital or a government hospital with an ophthalmology department.
- Carry Necessary Documents
Bring your smart card, Aadhaar, and a basic medical summary if available.
- Ask for the CMCHIS Desk
They will guide you through pre-authorisation, referral (if needed), and paperwork.
- Get Treated Without Paying Out of Pocket
Surgery, medicines, follow-ups — all covered under the scheme.
Still Have Questions?
We’ve answered 25 detailed FAQs in our CMCHIS Chengalpattu guide here. Whether it’s about eligibility, hospital lists, or what to do if your hospital denies treatment — it’s all covered.
Final Words
Your eyes are priceless.
And if cost is the reason someone in your family is delaying cataract or glaucoma treatment, the CMCHIS scheme exists for precisely this reason. From top-tier hospitals like Sankara Eye Hospital to local screening centres, you are covered, if you know where to go and what to ask.If you know someone in Chengalpattu struggling with eye issues and worried about the cost, please share this blog with them. It might help them see again, quite literally.
Frequently Asked Questions – Eye Care under CMCHIS in Chengalpattu
1. Is cataract surgery covered under CMCHIS in Chengalpattu?
Yes. Cataract surgery, including lens implantation, is fully covered under CMCHIS in empanelled hospitals like Sankara Eye Hospital and select government facilities.
2. Which are the best eye hospitals in Chengalpattu covered by CMCHIS?
Sankara Eye Hospital (Kancheepuram) is the top referral centre. Lions Eye Care Unit in Chengalpattu and government hospitals with ophthalmology departments also offer CMCHIS services.
3. Can my elderly parents get free eye treatment under this scheme?
Yes, if your family has a CMCHIS smart card and meets the income eligibility, your parents can get free eye surgeries and consultations at approved hospitals.
4. Are diabetic eye complications treated under CMCHIS?
Yes. CMCHIS covers diabetic retinopathy treatment, including laser therapy, in select hospitals. Early screening is essential, especially for diabetic patients above 40.
5. Do I need a referral from a government hospital to visit a private eye hospital under CMCHIS?
Not always. Some private hospitals like Sankara Eye Hospital accept direct walk-ins with a CMCHIS smart card. However, in some cases, a referral may speed up authorisation.
6. What documents do I need to show for eye surgery under CMCHIS?
You need your CMCHIS smart card, Aadhaar card, and a basic medical summary or referral note (if available). The hospital’s CMCHIS desk will help you.
7. Is there any cost involved at any stage?
No. All approved procedures are completely free under CMCHIS. Do not pay unless you choose to go outside the covered package voluntarily.
8. Are pediatric eye problems like squint covered?
Yes. Pediatric squint correction and other eye surgeries in children are covered, subject to approval. It’s best to consult an empanelled hospital.
9. Where can I complain if a hospital refuses CMCHIS treatment for the eyes?
You can call the CMCHIS helpline at 1800-425-3993 or raise a grievance on the official CMCHIS portal. Keep your smart card number ready.
10. Can I get glasses or contact lenses under CMCHIS?
No. CMCHIS does not cover routine vision correction like glasses or contact lenses. It only covers medical/surgical treatments for eye conditions.
11. Is retinal surgery covered under the scheme?
Yes, but only at specific tertiary centres. You may be referred to a higher centre depending on availability and the type of retinal disorder.
12. What’s the process if I live in a rural part of Chengalpattu with no eye hospital nearby?
You can visit the nearest Primary Health Centre (PHC) or a screening camp. If needed, they will issue a referral to an empanelled eye hospital with CMCHIS coverage.
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