CGHS Clarifies One-Time Option Rule for Choosing Parents or Parents-in-Law for Medical Benefits

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has clarified that male Central Government employees can exercise only a one-time option for choosing either parents or parents-in-law as dependent family members for availing medical facilities under the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) and Central Services (Medical Attendance) Rules, 1944 [CS(MA)].

The clarification has been issued through an Office Memorandum dated 13 May 2026 following earlier policy changes that extended this choice to male employees under CGHS and CS(MA) Rules.

According to the Ministry, once an employee opts for parents as dependents, the option cannot later be changed to parents-in-law. Similarly, employees who choose parents-in-law will not be allowed to switch the option in favour of parents at a later stage.

The order further clarifies that the option will remain final even in cases arising due to the demise of parents or other circumstances.

Earlier, the facility allowing Central Government employees to choose either parents or parents-in-law under CGHS was expanded to include male employees. Subsequently, the same benefit was extended to beneficiaries covered under CS(MA) Rules, 1944.

The Ministry has asked all Ministries and Departments to circulate these instructions for strict compliance.

The latest clarification highlights the need for employees to carefully evaluate their choice before exercising the option, as the decision cannot be revised later.

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