Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana and Pediatric Mental Health: A Blueprint for Lower- and-middle-income Countries

This study examines India’s Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) healthcare scheme and its implications for pediatric mental health in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). While AB-PMJAY provides comprehensive coverage, implementation challenges persist, including mental health workforce gaps, urban–rural disparities, financial sustainability risks, and awareness deficits. Drawing lessons from the AB-PMJAY and other LMIC initiatives, this study proposes policy recommendations to improve pediatric mental healthcare delivery. These include task shifting, decentralizing services, leveraging telehealth, strengthening financial governance, and implementing awareness campaigns. The AB-PMJAY model offers valuable insights for LMICs aiming to integrate pediatric mental health into universal health coverage. However, success depends on developing tailored financing models and conducting rigorous impact assessments to balance equity and sustainability in service delivery. This short communication provides a blueprint for LMICs to address the rising childhood mental health burden in their healthcare systems.