The world is moving ahead at a fast pace, and healthcare systems around the world are evolving. Most countries take pride in how advanced their healthcare systems are, and constant advancements are being made in this sector that led to overall progress in the country.
A key component of the National Digital Health Mission, the ABHA card is a unique ID provided to those who apply for the same. ABHA health ID is extremely beneficial and should be applied to by every citizen. There has been much discussion and speculation about what is ABHA card. Here are some things you may not know.
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Things To Know About Abha Card
What is ABDM?
Under ABDM, the Central Government of India launched the Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA), which was previously known as a Digital Health Card.
ABHA Card is not compulsory
Getting an ABHA card is not a compulsory affair. You can choose not to apply for it at all. You can generate and erase it at your will. If you wish to, you can opt out at any time.
ABHA address
ABHA address is actually the one that allows you to share and access your health records digitally. ABHA address is a unique identifier which is a self-declared username. Your ABHA address may have the format ‘nameyouchoose@consent manager’.
If the ABDM consent manager is facilitating health data exchange post the proper process for consent, then your address may look like ‘nameyouchoose@abdm’.
ABHA number
ABHA number is a 14 digit number that is exclusively assigned to you and is allocated at random. This number will establish your identity and is a verifying step for medical professionals before they review your history and start any treatment.
Relation between ABHA number and address
ABHA number and ABHA address are separate components under the same umbrella. You can use your ABHA number to sign up for an ABHA address and, consequently, ensure all your medical data is maintained in one place. ABHA address is essential to share your medical information whenever you deem it necessary.
Versatile card
You can also use this card at traditional medical centres. AYUSH healthcare facilities that provide Siddha, Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Naturopathy, Yoga, and Unani are also integrated as a part of the database.
Single source of truth
Patients can find out or cross-check information about private and public healthcare facilities to find the best treatment options.
At the same time, the registered patients are empowered to make choices, as you have a whole database of credible information at your disposal. You can also find out about medical facilities around your area with the click of a few buttons.
Improvement plans
The launch of this initiative came with development plans already in the pipeline. There are a few plans yet to be implemented, like adding a nominee. Another feature that is still in the works is the ABHA card for children. You can maintain your kids’ records right from birth, and this benefit is yet to be launched.
Ease of operating
The process of signing up for an Ayushman Bharat health account is extremely easy, and one can be done remotely without visiting any government office. You need not take the help of any official, and the whole process, right from registration to erasing your information, can be done online.
Criteria for application
Anyone who is a country citizen can apply for an ABHA card, and it is free of cost. Anyone from any background can take advantage of this facility. The portability of data across the country makes it an even better plan.
When reviewing the utility of the ABHA card, it is essential to remember the above-mentioned points. It is only useful as long you all know the benefits and are aware of the processes.
Featured image source: abdm.gov.in
