Struggling with ESI Dispensary Delays: Can Employees Get Reimbursed for Outside Medicine Purchases?

Dear Seniors, our employees face problems when they approach the ESI dispensary for medicines as per the prescription issued by the doctor. In most cases, the medicines are not available. The dispensary staff say that they will order the medicine, and it will be available in 2-3 weeks. However, a patient cannot wait until that date. They have to purchase the medicine from outside pharmacies.

Reimbursement for Medicines Purchased Outside

My question is, if due to the unavailability of medicine in the dispensary, an IP patient purchases medicine from outside, can they claim reimbursement afterwards? If yes, what is the procedure? If not, and the patient doesn't have money to procure the medicine, what options are available to them?

Thank you.

Dear Anand,

Please raise the grievance on the ESIC Portal. Your grievance should be addressed by the ESIC RO, and if not resolved, keep sending them reminders. Highlight this issue in local newspapers and write to the PMO office.

Somebody should raise their voice against this injustice from ESIC. We are paying them regular contributions, and it is their duty to provide services under the Social Security Act.