The ABHA card is a unique 14-digit identification number assigned to individuals, enabling them to create and maintain their health records digitally. It allows seamless sharing of medical information with hospitals, clinics, doctors, and diagnostic centres, ensuring better coordination and treatment planning.
Key features of the ABHA card
- Provides a unique 14-digit health ID linked to the individual’s medical history.
- Enables secure access to digital health records across different healthcare providers.
- Facilitates paperless exchange of health information with doctors and hospitals.
- Helps in storing lab reports, prescriptions, and treatment details in one place.
- Works as a voluntary and free service, ensuring privacy and data security.
Benefits of having an ABHA card
Registering for an ABHA card provides multiple benefits, making healthcare access more efficient and patient-friendly.
1. Easy access to digital health records
Individuals no longer need to carry physical medical reports or prescriptions. The ABHA card stores all health records digitally, allowing access through any registered healthcare provider.
2. Secure and paperless health management
With digital records, patients can securely store and retrieve their health data at any time. The system ensures privacy, allowing individuals to share their records only with authorised healthcare providers.
3. Faster and better medical consultations
Doctors can access a patient’s medical history instantly, leading to accurate diagnoses and better treatment decisions. This reduces the chances of errors due to missing medical information.
4. Integration with Ayushman Bharat and other government schemes
The ABHA card is linked with various government health schemes, including Ayushman Bharat, enabling beneficiaries to receive medical benefits easily. It simplifies the process of availing treatment under these schemes.
5. Nationwide portability of medical records
Since the health ID is recognised across India, individuals can access their medical records from anywhere, eliminating the need to carry physical documents while visiting different hospitals or doctors.
How to register for an ABHA card
The registration process for an ABHA card is simple and can be completed online through multiple platforms, including the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission website, mobile apps, and partner healthcare providers.
Step 1: Visit the official ABHA portal
Go to the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) website at healthid.ndhm.gov.in. Alternatively, you can register through the ABHA mobile app, available on Android and iOS platforms.
Step 2: Choose the registration method
You can register for the ABHA card using one of the following:
- Aadhaar-based registration – The easiest way to create an ABHA card is by linking it with your Aadhaar number. This ensures seamless integration with your identity details.
- Driving licence-based registration – If you prefer not to use Aadhaar, you can register using your driving licence. However, verification requires visiting a healthcare facility.
- Mobile number-based registration – Some users can also generate an ABHA number using their mobile number, but access to full features may require further verification.
Step 3: Verify identity using OTP
For Aadhaar-based registration, enter your Aadhaar number and verify it using the OTP received on your registered mobile number. If registering with a driving licence, visit the nearest healthcare facility for identity verification.
Step 4: Generate your ABHA number
After successful verification, a 14-digit unique ABHA number will be generated for you. This number serves as your digital health ID, allowing you to link and access health records.
Step 5: Set up ABHA address (optional)
Users can create an ABHA address (similar to an email ID) to facilitate easy record-sharing with healthcare providers. This step is optional but recommended for a smoother experience.
How to complete ABHA card download
Once the registration process is complete, you can download your ABHA card for future reference.
Step 1: Log in to the ABHA portal
Visit the official website and log in using your ABHA number and OTP verification.
Step 2: Navigate to the ‘Download ABHA Card’ option
Click on the ‘ABHA Card Download’ option available on the dashboard.
Step 3: Save or print the card
Once downloaded, save a digital copy or take a printout for easy access during medical visits.
Frequently asked questions about the ABHA card
1. Is the ABHA card mandatory for availing healthcare services?
No, the ABHA card is voluntary, and individuals can choose whether to register. However, having one provides convenience and better access to healthcare services.
2. Can I delete my ABHA number if I no longer want to use it?
Yes, users can request the deactivation or deletion of their ABHA number through the official portal if they choose not to use the service.
3. Is there a fee for registering or using the ABHA card?
No, the ABHA card is completely free to register and use. There are no charges for creating or accessing digital health records.
4. Can I link my existing medical records to my ABHA number?
Yes, hospitals, diagnostic centres, and doctors can integrate their systems with the ABHA framework, allowing patients to link their past and future medical records digitally.
5. Is my health data secure with the ABHA card?
Yes, the ABHA system follows strict data security and privacy protocols. Users have full control over their data and can decide which healthcare providers can access their records.
Conclusion
The ABHA card is a significant step towards digital healthcare transformation in India, allowing individuals to maintain their health records securely and access medical services efficiently. With benefits such as easy record-sharing, seamless hospital access, and better treatment coordination, registering for an ABHA card is a smart decision for individuals looking to simplify their healthcare journey.
By following the step-by-step process outlined in this guide, you can complete your registration and ABHA card download, ensuring that your medical history is always accessible when needed. Whether for routine checkups, emergency medical care, or government health scheme benefits, having an ABHA card provides a hassle-free experience in managing healthcare records.
