What is an ABHA Card?

Understanding the Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) Card

The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) was initiated in September 2021 to upgrade the digital healthcare system in India. Under this initiative, every Indian citizen can apply for an ABHA card to keep their medical records safe and organized digitally. 

Thus, users can share their health-related details with any medical professionals or healthcare providers across the country and access best-in-class treatment facilities. 

Here's more on the ABHA card and its benefits!

What is the Meaning of ABHA?

The term ABHA stands for Ayushman Bharat Health Account. Every ABHA cardholder is provided with a 14-digit UID (unique identification number) called the ABHA ID. One needs to enter this ID while logging into their ABHA account.

The NHA (National Health Authority) has set up ABDM to manage the ABHA cards and accounts. Users can store their prescriptions, details of doctor consultations, and complete medical history in the ABHA account.

How to Apply for an ABHA Card?

You can apply for an ABHA card online with your Aadhaar details or driving license. However, if you provide an Aadhaar card, ensure it is linked with your mobile number. Here are the steps to follow:

• Visit the official ABHA website and select the "Create ABHA number" option. 
• Select the ID proof you want to produce and enter the ID number in the required field. 
• Read the declaration and click "I Agree" after entering the OTP sent to your registered mobile number to generate your ABHA ID.

What are the Documents Required to Apply for an ABHA Card?

The documents required to apply for an ABHA card are as follows:

• Aadhaar card (must be linked to your mobile number)
• Voter ID card
• PAN card
• Driving license
• Bank account details
• Domicile certificate
• Caste certificate

What are the Benefits of an ABHA Card?

Here are some of the benefits of acquiring an ABHA card:

• Simplifies health record management by storing all medical information digitally. This centralized system ensures that healthcare providers have access to comprehensive patient data, leading to more informed medical decisions.
• It facilitates coordinated healthcare among family members and between different healthcare providers. This helps in managing health benefits and services efficiently across various providers.
• The ABHA card provides easy access to health data and telemedicine services. This convenience enhances healthcare efficiency by allowing patients to manage appointments and access medical services remotely.

How Does ABHA Work?

The ABHA card is linked to your Aadhaar card. This creates a unique digital health ID with which you can access your health locker. Here is a list of things you can store in your ABHA account:

• Medical report 
• Prescription 
• Lab results 
• Vaccination certificates, and many more. 

Moreover, you can get access to a range of healthcare benefits such as:

• E-prescriptions 
• Teleconsulting 
• Online doctor appointments 

Rest assured, all your data in the ABHA account is digitally encrypted and securely stored, ensuring complete privacy and confidentiality. 

Why is an ABHA Card Required?

Here are some of the reasons why ABHA cards are necessary for every individual:

1. One-Stop Digital Storage

The ABHA card facilitates easy access and tracking of health records by storing them digitally. This enables doctors to provide accurate medical assistance based on a patient's comprehensive health history.

2. Access to Top-quality Doctors

The Healthcare Professionals Registry (HPR) connects patients with licensed doctors and healthcare professionals using an ABHA ID, facilitating access to quality care and insurance verification.

3. Child ABHA

Creating an ABHA card for a child helps maintain their medical history from birth. It will allow you to customize health insurance plans based on their specific health needs. Insurance companies like Star Health offer comprehensive coverage for a child's health, complementing the benefits of ABHA.

4. Secured Storage

The digital platform is secured with robust encryption and strict access controls. This helps users to manage who can view their medical information, ensuring privacy and security.

5. Consensual Access

The ABHA digital health card ensures that your medical data remains private, is accessible only with your consent, and allows you to revoke access at any time.

Thus, the ABHA card helps you streamline health data management, allowing secure sharing with authorized providers. It connects patients with providers and integrates benefits from various health programs, improving the overall healthcare experience. You can link your ABHA number to public health programs and insurance schemes for streamlined healthcare benefits and access.

Also Read:

→ What is the Use of ABHA Card

→ How to Use an ABHA Card in a Private Hospital

→ Who is Eligible for an ABHA Card