Tamil Nadu has long been recognised as the healthcare hub of India, but the cost of treatment for serious conditions often runs into lakhs of rupees. The Chief Minister’s Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme (CMCHIS) bridges this gap by ensuring that even the most advanced procedures, from heart bypass to liver transplants, from neonatal ICU care to cancer chemotherapy are available to families at zero cost.
A unique strength of CMCHIS is its specialty-based hospital empanelment. This ensures that each type of medical problem — heart, kidney, cancer, neuro, paediatrics, and more, is addressed by the right expert hospitals across Tamil Nadu.
In this guide, we break down all 35+ specialities covered under CMCHIS, with an overview of:
- What the speciality covers
- Common conditions and treatments
- Tamil Nadu–specific health statistics
- Example empanelled hospitals
1. Bariatric Surgery
What it covers: Bariatric surgery deals with weight-loss procedures for people with severe obesity. It includes gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and gastric banding.
Why it matters in Tamil Nadu:
- NFHS-5 shows 36% of women and 33% of men in Tamil Nadu are overweight or obese.
- Obesity is strongly linked to diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, which are already very common in the state.
CMCHIS Benefit: Surgeries costing ₹3–5 lakhs are fully covered.
| Common Bariatric Procedures | Purpose | Cost without CMCHIS | Cost under CMCHIS |
| Gastric Bypass | Weight loss & diabetes control | ₹4–5 lakhs | Free |
| Sleeve Gastrectomy | Restricts stomach size | ₹3–4 lakhs | Free |
| Gastric Banding | Adjustable weight loss surgery | ₹2.5–3 lakhs | Free |
Example Hospitals:
- Gleneagles Global Health City, Perumbakkam (Chennai)
- GEM Hospital, Coimbatore & Chennai
- MGM Healthcare, Aminjikarai
2. Cardiology & Cardiothoracic Surgery
What it covers:
- Cardiology: Treatment of heart problems using medicines and minimally invasive procedures (like angioplasty, pacemakers, stents).
- Cardiothoracic Surgery: Major operations like bypass surgery, valve replacement, and heart-lung procedures.
Tamil Nadu’s Heart Disease Burden:
- Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in Tamil Nadu (30% of all deaths).
- Chennai alone sees 40,000+ angioplasties every year.
- High prevalence of diabetes and hypertension increases cardiac risk.
CMCHIS Benefit: Life-saving surgeries (costing ₹2–7 lakhs) are entirely free under CMCHIS.
| Treatment | Condition Treated | Avg. Market Cost | CMCHIS Coverage |
| Angioplasty with stent | Blocked arteries | ₹1.5–2 lakhs | Free |
| CABG (Bypass Surgery) | Severe coronary artery disease | ₹3–5 lakhs | Free |
| Valve Replacement | Damaged heart valves | ₹4–6 lakhs | Free |
Example Hospitals:
- Apollo Hospitals, Greams Road
- Fortis Malar, Adyar
- Government Omandurar Super Speciality Hospital
3. Neurology & Neurosurgery
What it covers:
- Neurology: Medical treatment for conditions like stroke, epilepsy, Parkinson’s, migraine.
- Neurosurgery: Operations on brain, spinal cord, and nerves — from trauma surgeries to brain tumor removal.
Tamil Nadu Stats:
- Stroke incidence: 162 per 100,000, higher than national average.
- Road accidents in Tamil Nadu lead to thousands of head injury cases yearly.
CMCHIS Benefit: Covers costly procedures like brain tumor surgery (₹3–6 lakhs) or spinal stabilization (₹2–4 lakhs).
| Common Conditions | Typical Procedure | Cost without CMCHIS | Cost with CMCHIS |
| Stroke | Thrombolysis / ICU | ₹1–2 lakhs | Free |
| Brain Tumor | Craniotomy | ₹4–6 lakhs | Free |
| Spinal Injury | Stabilization | ₹3–4 lakhs | Free |
Example Hospitals:
- SIMS Hospital, Vadapalani
- Government Rajiv Gandhi Hospital, Chennai
- Apollo Specialty Hospital
4. Oncology (Cancer Care)
What it covers:
- Medical Oncology: Chemotherapy, immunotherapy.
- Radiation Oncology: Radiation therapy for tumors.
- Surgical Oncology: Removal of cancers surgically.
Tamil Nadu Stats:
- 1.2 lakh new cancer cases annually.
- Leading cancers: breast cancer (women), oral cancer (men).
CMCHIS Benefit: Covers chemotherapy cycles, radiation (₹50,000+ per cycle), and major surgeries.
| Cancer Type | Treatment | Avg. Cost | CMCHIS Coverage |
| Breast Cancer | Surgery + Chemo | ₹5–10 lakhs | Free |
| Oral Cancer | Surgery + Radiation | ₹4–7 lakhs | Free |
| Cervical Cancer | Surgery + Radiation | ₹4–6 lakhs | Free |
Example Hospitals:
- Cancer Institute, Adyar
- Apollo Proton Cancer Centre, Taramani
- Madurai Rajaji Government Hospital (Oncology wing)
5. Nephrology
What it covers:
- Dialysis for kidney failure
- Kidney transplantation
- Management of chronic kidney disease (CKD)
Tamil Nadu Stats:
- Over 2.5 lakh patients require regular dialysis.
- CKD prevalence is rising due to diabetes and hypertension.
CMCHIS Benefit:
- Unlimited dialysis sessions (otherwise ₹2,000 per session).
- Kidney transplant coverage (worth ₹5–8 lakhs).
| Condition | Treatment | Cost without CMCHIS | Cost with CMCHIS |
| CKD | Dialysis (12/month) | ₹25,000/month | Free |
| ESRD | Kidney Transplant | ₹5–8 lakhs | Free |
Example Hospitals:
- Stanley Medical College, Chennai
- Kaveri Hospital, Trichy
- PSG Hospitals, Coimbatore
6. Endocrine Surgery
Overview: Endocrine surgery deals with surgical treatment of glands that secrete hormones, including the thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal, and pancreas. These surgeries are often required for conditions like thyroid cancer, hyperthyroidism, adrenal tumors, or pancreatic endocrine tumors.
Common Procedures:
- Thyroidectomy (partial or total removal of thyroid)
- Parathyroidectomy
- Adrenalectomy
- Surgery for insulinoma or other hormone-secreting tumors
Why It Matters in Tamil Nadu: Thyroid disorders are common in Tamil Nadu, with studies indicating nearly 10–12% prevalence of hypothyroidism among adults (higher than the national average of ~11%). Surgical cases such as thyroid cancer or goiters often require advanced endocrine surgical teams, available in major Chennai hospitals and increasingly in Tier-2 cities.
CMCHIS Coverage: Patients can undergo thyroid, parathyroid, and adrenal surgeries under CMCHIS free of cost in empanelled specialty hospitals.
| Condition | Surgery Covered | Typical CMCHIS Benefit |
| Thyroid cancer / goiter | Thyroidectomy | Free surgery + stay |
| Hyperparathyroidism | Parathyroidectomy | Free procedure |
| Adrenal tumors | Adrenalectomy | Covered under CMCHIS |
7. Endocrinology
Overview: Endocrinology is the medical (non-surgical) management of hormone-related diseases. Doctors in this field treat diabetes, thyroid disorders, pituitary diseases, and adrenal issues.
Key Conditions Treated:
- Diabetes mellitus
- Hypothyroidism & hyperthyroidism
- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
- Adrenal insufficiency
- Pituitary tumors (medical management)
Tamil Nadu Context:
- Tamil Nadu has one of the highest burdens of diabetes in India — over 10% of adults are diabetic and another 14% pre-diabetic.
- Thyroid disorders also contribute significantly to healthcare load, especially in women.
CMCHIS Coverage: CMCHIS allows for free endocrinology consultations, diagnostic tests, and inpatient care for hormonal disorders in empanelled hospitals.
8. Follow-Up Procedures
Overview: Follow-up care is critical after surgeries or medical treatments. These may include wound care, lab monitoring, physiotherapy sessions, or repeat diagnostic procedures.
Typical Follow-Up Under CMCHIS:
- Post-cardiac surgery check-ups
- Cancer follow-up investigations (blood, imaging)
- Dialysis sessions after kidney transplant
- Orthopaedic physiotherapy
Tamil Nadu Context: Follow-up is often expensive and continuous. By covering these under CMCHIS, financial burden is reduced especially for poor and rural families.
| Specialty | Example Follow-Up Procedure | CMCHIS Coverage |
| Cardiology | ECG, Echo post-surgery | Free |
| Oncology | Tumor marker tests, scans | Free |
| Orthopaedics | Physiotherapy | Free sessions |
9. Gastroenterology
Overview: This specialty deals with the digestive system and its disorders — esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, gallbladder.
Common Conditions:
- Acid reflux & ulcers
- Liver cirrhosis, Hepatitis B/C
- Gallstones
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Gastrointestinal cancers
Tamil Nadu Context:
- Liver disease is a rising burden due to alcohol consumption and fatty liver disease.
- Tamil Nadu has a high number of liver transplant programs (not all under CMCHIS, but basic liver disease care is).
CMCHIS Coverage Includes:
- Endoscopy & colonoscopy
- Liver function tests
- Inpatient treatment for GI bleeding, infections, cancers
10. General Medicine
Overview: General medicine is the backbone of healthcare, covering common adult diseases like fever, infections, hypertension, diabetes, lung infections, etc.
Key Coverage Areas:
- Infectious diseases (typhoid, dengue, malaria)
- Hypertension, diabetes management
- Respiratory infections (TB, pneumonia)
- Autoimmune diseases
Tamil Nadu Context: Tamil Nadu sees seasonal surges in dengue, chikungunya, and typhoid. General medicine wards in CMCHIS hospitals provide free treatment and hospitalization for these cases.
11. General Surgery
Overview: General surgery involves a wide range of procedures for conditions affecting the abdomen, skin, breast, soft tissues, and trauma. It is often the first specialty in most multi-specialty hospitals.
Common Procedures Covered:
- Appendectomy (removal of appendix)
- Hernia repair
- Gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy)
- Piles & fistula surgeries
- Breast lump excisions
- Trauma surgeries
Tamil Nadu Context:
- Gallbladder disease is common in South India, and laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a frequently performed surgery.
- Road traffic accidents (RTAs) in Tamil Nadu contribute to 12% of trauma admissions, requiring immediate surgical intervention.
CMCHIS Benefits: All routine and emergency general surgeries are covered, ensuring poor patients don’t have to bear out-of-pocket expenses.
| Condition | Procedure | CMCHIS Coverage |
| Appendicitis | Appendectomy | Free surgery |
| Hernia | Hernioplasty | Free surgery |
| Gallstones | Cholecystectomy | Covered |
| Trauma injuries | Exploratory surgery | Covered |
12. Genitourinary Surgery
Overview: This branch deals with surgical treatment of the urinary tract system (kidneys, bladder, ureters, urethra) and male reproductive organs.
Common Procedures:
- Kidney stone removal
- Prostate surgery (TURP)
- Bladder tumor removal
- Ureteric stone surgery
- Male infertility corrective surgery
Tamil Nadu Context: Kidney stone disease is highly prevalent in hot climates like Tamil Nadu, affecting nearly 12% of the population.
CMCHIS Coverage:
- Stone surgeries (open or endoscopic) are covered.
- Prostate surgeries for elderly men are free in empanelled hospitals.
- Male infertility-related procedures (if indicated) are also included.
13. Gynaecology & Obstetric Surgery
Overview: This specialty deals with women’s reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth. It includes both routine obstetric procedures (like delivery and caesarean sections) and gynecological surgeries (like hysterectomy, ovarian cyst removal, and fibroid surgeries).
Key Procedures:
- Caesarean Section (C-section)
- Normal Delivery (with complications management)
- Hysterectomy (removal of uterus)
- Ovarian cystectomy
- Ectopic pregnancy surgery
- Tubectomy (family planning surgery)
Tamil Nadu Context:
- Tamil Nadu is known for its strong maternal health services. The state’s Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) is 53 per 1,00,000 live births, among the best in India.
- Caesarean deliveries account for nearly 40% of institutional deliveries in TN (much higher than the national average of 21%).
- Ovarian cysts and uterine fibroids are common among women in their 30s and 40s, often requiring surgery.
CMCHIS Benefits: Under CMCHIS, women from low-income families can undergo:
- Free deliveries (normal & caesarean) at empanelled hospitals.
- Free hysterectomy, fibroid, and ovarian cyst surgeries.
- High-risk pregnancies (like gestational diabetes, hypertension) are fully covered.
| Condition / Procedure | CMCHIS Coverage | Typical Cost Without CMCHIS |
| Caesarean Delivery | Fully Covered | ₹30,000–₹50,000 |
| Normal Delivery | Fully Covered | ₹15,000–₹25,000 |
| Hysterectomy | Covered | ₹60,000–₹90,000 |
| Ovarian Cyst Removal | Covered | ₹40,000–₹70,000 |
| Tubectomy (Family Planning) | Covered | ₹10,000–₹20,000 |
14. Hematology
Overview: Hematology is the branch of medicine concerned with blood and blood-related disorders. It includes anemia, clotting disorders, leukemias (blood cancers), and genetic conditions like thalassemia.
Key Conditions & Treatments:
- Thalassemia & Sickle Cell Anemia → Regular blood transfusions, chelation therapy.
- Hemophilia → Factor VIII and IX replacement therapy.
- Leukemia (Blood Cancer) → Chemotherapy cycles, bone marrow transplant.
- Aplastic Anemia → Immunotherapy, stem cell transplant.
Tamil Nadu Context:
- Hemophilia prevalence in TN: ~8,000–10,000 patients are registered.
- Thalassemia burden: ~3–4% of the population carries thalassemia trait.
- Major centres for hematology in TN: Government Rajaji Hospital (Madurai), Apollo Chennai, CMC Vellore.
CMCHIS Benefits:
- Covers blood transfusions, chemotherapy, and hospitalization costs.
- Certain stem cell transplant expenses (in government institutions) are supported.
- Hemophilia treatment is subsidised via CMCHIS and state programs.
| Condition | Treatment | CMCHIS Coverage | Typical Cost Without CMCHIS |
| Thalassemia | Blood transfusions | Covered | ₹3,000–₹5,000 / session |
| Hemophilia | Factor replacement | Covered | ₹10,000–₹50,000 / dose |
| Leukemia | Chemotherapy | Covered | ₹1,00,000–₹5,00,000 |
| Aplastic Anemia | Stem cell transplant | Partially Covered | ₹10–20 lakh |
15. Hepatology
Overview: Hepatology focuses on liver diseases, including cirrhosis, hepatitis, fatty liver disease, and liver cancer.
Key Conditions:
- Viral Hepatitis (A, B, C, E)
- Cirrhosis (alcoholic & non-alcoholic)
- Fatty liver disease
- Liver cancer (Hepatocellular carcinoma)
- Portal hypertension and variceal bleeding
Tamil Nadu Context:
- Rising alcohol-related liver disease burden in Tamil Nadu.
- Studies show one in five adults in Chennai has fatty liver disease due to lifestyle changes.
- Liver cancer cases are increasing, often linked to untreated hepatitis infections.
CMCHIS Benefits:
- Hospitalization and treatment for hepatitis, cirrhosis complications, and liver cancers are covered.
- Endoscopic variceal banding, liver biopsies, and cancer care are included.
- Liver transplants are NOT fully covered but partial support is offered at government hospitals.
| Condition | Treatment | CMCHIS Coverage | Typical Cost Without CMCHIS |
| Hepatitis B/C | Antiviral therapy | Covered | ₹20,000–₹50,000 |
| Cirrhosis | Hospitalization + Endoscopy | Covered | ₹30,000–₹70,000 |
| Fatty Liver Disease | Lifestyle + medication | Covered | ₹15,000–₹30,000 / year |
| Liver Cancer | Surgery / Chemotherapy | Covered | ₹2–5 lakh |
| Liver Transplant | Partial support | Partially Covered | ₹20–30 lakh |
16. Infectious Diseases (General Medicine)
Overview: This specialty manages infectious diseases, including bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections.
Key Conditions:
- Tuberculosis (TB)
- HIV/AIDS
- Malaria, Dengue, Chikungunya
- Typhoid, Cholera
- COVID-19 and post-COVID complications
Tamil Nadu Context:
- Tuberculosis burden: TN reports ~2.5 lakh TB cases annually.
- Dengue: Tamil Nadu is among the top states with recurrent outbreaks.
- HIV prevalence: ~0.2% of adult population (one of the highest in South India).
CMCHIS Benefits:
- Hospitalisation for infectious disease complications is fully covered.
- Anti-tuberculosis and HIV care are mostly provided free under state programmes but hospitalization expenses are covered under CMCHIS.
- Post-COVID lung complications are included in CMCHIS package.
| Condition | Treatment | CMCHIS Coverage | Typical Cost Without CMCHIS |
| Tuberculosis | DOTS + hospitalization | Covered | ₹20,000–₹50,000 |
| HIV/AIDS | ART + opportunistic infection care | Covered | ₹50,000–₹1 lakh |
| Dengue | Hospitalisation + transfusion | Covered | ₹25,000–₹70,000 |
| Typhoid | Antibiotics + hospitalization | Covered | ₹15,000–₹40,000 |
17. Interventional Cardiology
Overview: This branch deals with minimally invasive procedures for heart disease, performed using catheters instead of open surgery.
Key Procedures:
- Angioplasty with stent placement
- Balloon valvotomy
- Pacemaker implantation
- ICD (Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator)
Tamil Nadu Context:
- Tamil Nadu is a hub for cardiac care, with centres like Apollo Chennai, Madras Medical Mission, and Government General Hospital offering advanced interventional cardiology.
- Studies show heart disease is the leading cause of death in TN, accounting for nearly 25% of adult deaths.
CMCHIS Benefits:
- Covers angioplasty, pacemaker, and stenting at empanelled hospitals.
- Saves families from costs ranging between ₹2–5 lakh in private hospitals.
| Procedure | CMCHIS Coverage | Typical Cost Without CMCHIS |
| Angioplasty + Stent | Covered | ₹2–3 lakh |
| Balloon Valvotomy | Covered | ₹1.5–2 lakh |
| Pacemaker Implant | Covered | ₹1–2.5 lakh |
| ICD Implant | Covered | ₹3–5 lakh |
18. Interventional Radiology
Overview: Interventional radiology (IR) uses image-guided, minimally invasive procedures to diagnose and treat diseases. Instead of open surgeries, doctors use CT scans, ultrasounds, and fluoroscopy to guide small instruments inside the body.
Key Procedures:
- Angiography (to view blood vessels)
- Angioplasty and stenting (non-cardiac vessels)
- Embolization (blocking abnormal blood vessels, e.g., uterine fibroids, tumors)
- Drainage of abscesses and fluids
- Biopsies guided by imaging
Tamil Nadu Context:
- Chennai and Coimbatore are hubs for interventional radiology in South India.
- Uterine fibroids affect 20–25% of women in TN aged 30–45, and uterine artery embolization (UAE) is becoming common.
- Interventional cancer treatments like radioembolization for liver cancer are offered in centres like Apollo and CMC Vellore.
CMCHIS Benefits:
- Covers image-guided biopsies, angioplasty, embolization, drainage procedures.
- Prevents patients from spending ₹50,000–₹2 lakh per procedure in private hospitals.
| Procedure | CMCHIS Coverage | Typical Cost Without CMCHIS |
| Biopsy (CT/USG guided) | Covered | ₹15,000–₹30,000 |
| Embolization (fibroids/tumors) | Covered | ₹80,000–₹1.5 lakh |
| Angioplasty (non-cardiac) | Covered | ₹1–2 lakh |
| Drainage (abscess/pleural fluid) | Covered | ₹20,000–₹40,000 |
19. Medical Oncology
Overview: Medical oncology deals with cancer treatment using medicines, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy.
Key Conditions:
- Breast cancer
- Cervical cancer
- Oral and throat cancer (very common in TN due to tobacco use)
- Lung cancer
- Blood cancers (leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma)
Tamil Nadu Context:
- TN records 65,000+ new cancer cases every year.
- Among women, breast and cervical cancers are the most common.
- Among men, oral and lung cancers dominate.
- The Tamil Nadu Cancer Registry is one of the oldest in India, monitoring trends since 1982.
CMCHIS Benefits:
- Covers chemotherapy cycles, hospitalization, palliative care.
- Major cancer drugs and treatment cycles are available free of cost.
- Saves patients ₹1–5 lakh per treatment course.
| Cancer Type | Treatment Example | CMCHIS Coverage | Typical Cost Without CMCHIS |
| Breast Cancer | Chemotherapy | Covered | ₹1.5–3 lakh |
| Cervical Cancer | Chemo + supportive care | Covered | ₹1–2 lakh |
| Oral Cancer | Chemo + hospitalization | Covered | ₹80,000–₹1.5 lakh |
| Blood Cancer | Chemotherapy cycles | Covered | ₹2–5 lakh |
20. Neonatology
Overview: Neonatology focuses on the care of newborn infants, especially preterm or critically ill babies. It involves neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).
Key Conditions:
- Premature birth (before 37 weeks)
- Low birth weight (under 2.5 kg)
- Birth asphyxia (oxygen deprivation during birth)
- Neonatal jaundice
- Congenital abnormalities (heart defects, cleft palate, etc.)
Tamil Nadu Context:
- TN has one of the best newborn care systems in India.
- Infant Mortality Rate (IMR): 13 per 1,000 live births (vs national average of 28).
- Statewide SNCUs (Special Newborn Care Units) are available even at district hospitals.
- Prematurity and low birth weight are the leading causes of NICU admissions.
CMCHIS Benefits:
- Covers NICU admissions, ventilator support, and neonatal surgeries.
- Parents avoid costs of ₹30,000–₹1.5 lakh per NICU stay.
- Free care up to 21 days after birth for eligible families.
| Condition | CMCHIS Coverage | Typical Cost Without CMCHIS |
| Premature Baby NICU | Covered | ₹50,000–₹1.5 lakh |
| Neonatal Jaundice | Covered | ₹15,000–₹30,000 |
| Birth Asphyxia Care | Covered | ₹40,000–₹80,000 |
| Congenital Heart Defect Surgery | Covered | ₹2–4 lakh |
20. Neonatology
Overview: Neonatology focuses on the care of newborn infants, especially preterm or critically ill babies. It involves neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).
Key Conditions:
- Premature birth (before 37 weeks)
- Low birth weight (under 2.5 kg)
- Birth asphyxia (oxygen deprivation during birth)
- Neonatal jaundice
- Congenital abnormalities (heart defects, cleft palate, etc.)
Tamil Nadu Context:
- TN has one of the best newborn care systems in India.
- Infant Mortality Rate (IMR): 13 per 1,000 live births (vs national average of 28).
- Statewide SNCUs (Special Newborn Care Units) are available even at district hospitals.
- Prematurity and low birth weight are the leading causes of NICU admissions.
CMCHIS Benefits:
- Covers NICU admissions, ventilator support, and neonatal surgeries.
- Parents avoid costs of ₹30,000–₹1.5 lakh per NICU stay.
- Free care up to 21 days after birth for eligible families.
| Condition | CMCHIS Coverage | Typical Cost Without CMCHIS |
| Premature Baby NICU | Covered | ₹50,000–₹1.5 lakh |
| Neonatal Jaundice | Covered | ₹15,000–₹30,000 |
| Birth Asphyxia Care | Covered | ₹40,000–₹80,000 |
| Congenital Heart Defect Surgery | Covered | ₹2–4 lakh |
21. Neurology
Neurology is the branch of medicine dealing with disorders of the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles. Under CMCHIS, patients with both acute and chronic neurological conditions can get access to diagnostic tests, medications, and surgical interventions.
Common Neurological Conditions Treated:
- Stroke (Ischemic & Hemorrhagic)
- Epilepsy
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Alzheimer’s Disease & Dementia
- Peripheral Neuropathy
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Migraines and Chronic Headaches
Treatments Covered under CMCHIS:
- Stroke management (including thrombolysis in select centres)
- Seizure evaluation and anti-epileptic therapy
- Neuro-rehabilitation
- Nerve conduction studies and EEG
- Management of neurodegenerative diseases
| Neurology Service | Details |
| Diagnostic Tests | EEG, EMG, Nerve Conduction Studies, Brain MRI |
| Stroke Care | Emergency clot-busting drugs, physiotherapy, rehab |
| Epilepsy | Medication, surgical options for refractory epilepsy |
| Neuro-rehab | Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy |
22. Neurosurgery
Neurosurgery involves surgical treatment of brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerve conditions. CMCHIS covers both emergency and elective neurosurgical procedures.
Conditions Treated:
- Brain tumors
- Spinal cord injuries
- Intracranial hemorrhage
- Hydrocephalus
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
- Congenital neurological malformations
Surgeries Covered:
- Craniotomy for trauma or tumor
- Spinal decompression and fixation
- Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt for hydrocephalus
- Minimally invasive endoscopic neurosurgeries
| Neurosurgical Care | Covered Under CMCHIS |
| Emergency Brain Trauma | Life-saving craniotomies |
| Tumor Removal | Benign & malignant brain tumors |
| Spinal Surgeries | Fixation, decompression, fracture management |
| Pediatric Neurosurgery | Congenital anomalies correction |
23. OFMS (Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery)
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery focuses on surgical treatment of conditions affecting the face, jaws, mouth, and skull.
Conditions Treated:
- Facial fractures
- Jaw misalignment (orthognathic surgery)
- Cleft lip and palate
- Oral cancers
- Dental implant surgeries
- Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders
| OFMS Procedures | CMCHIS Coverage |
| Trauma Surgery | Facial bone fractures |
| Reconstructive Surgery | Cleft lip/palate |
| Oral Cancer Surgery | Tumor excision, reconstruction |
| TMJ Surgery | Correction of jaw joint disorders |
24. Ophthalmology Surgeries
Eye-related surgeries are fully covered under CMCHIS, making advanced ophthalmic care accessible to low-income families.
Common Eye Conditions Treated:
- Cataract (leading cause of blindness in India)
- Glaucoma
- Retinal diseases (e.g., Diabetic Retinopathy)
- Corneal diseases
- Squint (Strabismus)
- Eye trauma
| Ophthalmology Care | CMCHIS Coverage |
| Cataract Surgery | Phacoemulsification & IOL implants |
| Glaucoma Surgery | Trabeculectomy, valve implants |
| Retina Care | Laser therapy, vitrectomy |
| Corneal Transplant | Donor cornea grafts |
| Pediatric Eye Care | Squint correction |
25. Orthopedic Trauma
Orthopedic trauma deals with bone and joint injuries, especially fractures due to accidents or falls.
Common Cases:
- Road traffic accident fractures
- Hip fractures in elderly
- Spinal fractures
- Multiple trauma injuries
Surgeries Covered:
- Internal fixation with plates, screws, and rods
- Joint replacement after trauma
- Spinal stabilization surgeries
| Orthopedic Trauma | Covered Procedures |
| Fracture Fixation | Plates, screws, intramedullary nails |
| Joint Trauma | Partial or total replacement if needed |
| Polytrauma Care | Multisystem injury management |
| Rehab | Physiotherapy, mobility aids |
26. Paediatric Intensive Care
Children needing intensive care support get free treatment under CMCHIS.
Conditions Covered:
- Severe infections (meningitis, pneumonia, sepsis)
- Respiratory failure requiring ventilator support
- Post-surgical care (heart, neuro, ortho)
- Poisoning and accidental injuries
| PICU Services | Coverage |
| Ventilator Support | Life-saving ICU care |
| Infections | IV antibiotics, monitoring |
| Trauma in Kids | Critical stabilization |
| Post-surgery Care | Pediatric rehab |
27. Paediatric Surgeries
Covers surgeries for congenital and acquired conditions in children.
Surgeries Included:
- Congenital heart defects
- Cleft lip and palate repair
- Hernia and hydrocele surgeries
- Pediatric urology (hypospadias correction)
- GI surgeries in children
| Pediatric Surgeries | Coverage |
| Corrective Surgeries | Hernia, hydrocele, GI defects |
| Cardiac Surgeries | ASD, VSD repair |
| Facial Surgeries | Cleft lip/palate |
| Urology | Hypospadias correction |
28. Paediatrics
Paediatrics focuses on the medical care of infants, children, and adolescents. CMCHIS ensures children from low-income families receive preventive and curative treatments without financial burden.
Conditions Treated:
- Respiratory infections (pneumonia, bronchiolitis)
- Diarrheal diseases
- Nutritional deficiencies (anaemia, rickets)
- Developmental delays
- Allergic and autoimmune conditions
Key CMCHIS Coverage:
- Outpatient care for common illnesses
- Hospitalisation for serious infections
- Growth monitoring & nutritional therapy
- Immunization support in some centres
| Pediatric Service | Coverage under CMCHIS |
| Common Infections | Free hospitalisation, IV antibiotics |
| Nutritional Therapy | Anaemia, growth failure management |
| Developmental Disorders | Screening & early intervention |
| Chronic Conditions | Asthma, autoimmune disease care |
29. Plastic Surgery
Plastic surgery under CMCHIS covers both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures (when medically necessary).
Conditions Covered:
- Burn injuries
- Cleft lip and palate (reconstructive)
- Post-trauma facial reconstruction
- Skin grafting after injuries
- Tumor removal and reconstruction
| Plastic Surgery | CMCHIS Coverage |
| Burn Care | Skin grafts, reconstructive surgery |
| Cleft Lip/Palate | Free correction surgeries |
| Trauma Repair | Facial & limb reconstruction |
| Tumor Removal | Reconstructive support post-surgery |
30. PMR (Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation)
PMR ensures recovery and quality of life for patients after major illnesses, accidents, or surgeries.
Conditions Treated:
- Stroke rehabilitation
- Spinal cord injuries
- Amputee rehabilitation
- Post-orthopedic surgery rehab
- Chronic pain management
| Rehabilitation Care | CMCHIS Coverage |
| Stroke Rehab | Physiotherapy, occupational therapy |
| Spinal Cord Injuries | Mobility training, assistive devices |
| Amputation Care | Prosthetic fitting & training |
| Pain Management | Nerve blocks, physiotherapy |
31. Psychiatry
CMCHIS covers psychiatric and mental health care, a critical step in addressing rising mental health concerns in Tamil Nadu.
Conditions Covered:
- Depression
- Schizophrenia
- Anxiety and panic disorders
- Bipolar disorder
- Substance abuse and rehabilitation
| Psychiatric Care | CMCHIS Coverage |
| Inpatient Care | For severe psychiatric illness |
| Medication Support | Antidepressants, antipsychotics |
| Rehab | Substance de-addiction programmes |
| Therapy | Counselling, behavioural therapy |
32. Pulmonology
Pulmonology deals with lung and respiratory conditions. Given the rise of pollution and post-COVID complications, this speciality is crucial.
Conditions Treated:
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Asthma
- Tuberculosis (TB)
- Post-COVID lung damage
- Respiratory failure requiring ventilators
| Pulmonology Care | CMCHIS Coverage |
| COPD & Asthma | Free inhalers, oxygen therapy |
| TB Care | Hospitalisation support |
| Ventilator Support | ICU care for respiratory failure |
| Post-COVID Rehab | Pulmonary rehabilitation |
33. Radiation Oncology
Covers cancer treatment using radiation therapy, which is expensive in private hospitals but free under CMCHIS.
Cancers Treated:
- Head & neck cancers
- Breast cancer
- Cervical cancer
- Lung cancer
- Brain tumors
| Radiation Oncology | CMCHIS Coverage |
| External Beam Therapy | Linear accelerator treatments |
| Brachytherapy | Internal radiation for cervical cancer |
| Palliative Care | Pain management, symptom control |
| Supportive Care | Nutrition, counselling |
34. Rheumatology
Rheumatology deals with autoimmune and musculoskeletal disorders.
Conditions Treated:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Lupus
- Gout
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Osteoarthritis
| Rheumatology Care | CMCHIS Coverage |
| Arthritis Care | Free medication & joint injections |
| Autoimmune Disorders | Hospitalisation, immune therapy |
| Pain Relief | Physiotherapy, rehab |
| Advanced Care | Joint replacement (if severe damage) |
35. Spine
Spine speciality focuses on surgical and non-surgical treatment of spinal disorders.
Conditions Covered:
- Slipped disc (Herniated disc)
- Spinal fractures
- Scoliosis
- Spinal tumors
- Degenerative spine diseases
| Spine Care | CMCHIS Coverage |
| Trauma Surgery | Spinal fixation, decompression |
| Tumor Surgery | Removal of spinal tumors |
| Deformity Correction | Scoliosis surgery |
| Rehab | Physiotherapy & mobility aids |
36. STEMI (ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction Care)
A focused speciality under CMCHIS for heart attacks requiring immediate intervention.
Treatments Covered:
- Thrombolysis (clot-busting drugs)
- Primary angioplasty in emergencies
- Cardiac ICU monitoring
- Post-heart attack rehab
| STEMI Care | CMCHIS Coverage |
| Emergency Drugs | Clot-dissolving injections |
| Angioplasty | Free life-saving stenting |
| ICU Care | 24/7 cardiac monitoring |
| Rehab | Cardiac rehab programmes |
37. Surgical Gastroenterology
Covers surgical treatments of complex gastrointestinal diseases.
Conditions Treated:
- Liver cancer surgery
- Pancreatic surgeries
- Gallbladder stones
- Gastrointestinal cancers
| Surgical GI Care | CMCHIS Coverage |
| Hepatobiliary Surgery | Liver resection, bile duct surgery |
| Pancreatic Surgery | Tumor removal, pancreatitis surgery |
| GI Cancers | Stomach, colon resection |
| Minimally Invasive Surgery | Laparoscopic GI surgeries |
38. Surgical Oncology
This is cancer surgery, where tumours and affected organs are removed.
Cancers Treated:
- Breast cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Oral cancers
- Gastrointestinal cancers
| Surgical Oncology | CMCHIS Coverage |
| Breast Surgery | Lumpectomy, mastectomy |
| GI Cancer Surgery | Colon, stomach tumor removal |
| Gynaecological Cancers | Ovarian & uterine cancer surgery |
| Head & Neck Cancers | Oral & throat cancer resections |
39. Thoracic Medicine
Deals with chest diseases apart from the heart.
Conditions Treated:
- Tuberculosis (including MDR-TB)
- Lung infections
- Occupational lung disease
- Asthma and allergies
| Thoracic Medicine | CMCHIS Coverage |
| TB Treatment | MDR-TB hospitalisation |
| Infections | IV antibiotics, ICU care |
| Chronic Lung Disease | Asthma, fibrosis management |
| Post-infection Rehab | Pulmonary rehabilitation |
40. Vascular Surgeries
Vascular surgery covers blood vessel disorders, ensuring critical conditions are treated under CMCHIS.
Conditions Treated:
- Peripheral artery disease (PAD)
- Varicose veins
- Aneurysms
- Carotid artery disease
- Diabetic vascular complications
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