February 28, 2010:The Royal Insurance Corporation of Bhutan (RICB) in Phuentsholing launched its first health insurance scheme on February 22.

In collaboration with 3,500 plus network hospitals in India, the health insurance scheme is expected to benefit general public in Bhutan, Bhutanese travelers and students studying in India.

‘‘They can avail world class treatment without paying from their pocket if an illness strikes at any time. RICB health insurance makes direct payment to hospital for planned and emergency hospitalization and treatment availed in India (cashless facility) and also reimburses the related travel expenses,” states the press release.

The benefits of health insurance scheme includes day care expenses, road ambulance services, transportation benefit and claim free Bonus. It also includes basic, pre and post hospitalization expenses.

 RICB will also try to network more facilities in Thailand and other countries as well.

‘’The health insurance will lessen government burden and also help in getting super health facilities in India,’’ said Namgyal Lhendup, the chief executive officer of RICB.

 The finance minister, Lyonpo Wangdi Norbu inaugurated the health insurance scheme in the presence of government officials and the business community.