The last few years have taught all the world’s citizens the importance of good health and keeping medical records intact. If anything, collectively, we have become more health-conscious and are trying to ensure that we do not face any unnecessary obstacles when it comes to receiving health-related assistance.
Whether access to competent professionals, medical care, or even finances related to treatment procedures, these facilities are slowly becoming very important at the micro and macro level.
Initiative taken by the Government of India
The government of India recognised the need to provide standardised healthcare facilities for all citizens. Understanding the financial burden it can place on most people, the NDHM developed certain provisions that would promote equality and help Indian citizens get the care they deserve. To provide these services effectively throughout the country, doctors would be required to collect and store all patients’ relevant and personal data.
This was available with a great initiative from the government that promoted the digitisation of all health-related documents. The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) came into the picture on 27th September 2021 and provided the necessary infrastructure and technology for the citizens and healthcare practitioners of India to engage in smooth and seamless treatment options.
The role of the ABHA card
The Ayushman Bharat Card can be accessed once you create an account with the Ayushman Bharat digital platform. The vision for this change is to provide the necessary backbone essential for an integrated health infrastructure on a digital platform. This card is a randomly generated 14-digit unique number provided to you that can help you access and store all your relevant health records in one place. Since its inception, the citizens of India have made use of the numerous benefits provided by the ABHA card:
- Digitisation of health records – Once you finish your registration, you can access and share your health records via your phone and need not carry the bulky papers and countless doctor files everywhere with you
- Access to professionals – Getting a consultation with qualified doctors in your city and any other place you visit will be possible with the list of professionals compiled on the app.
- Record your history – With the unique ABHA address provided to you, you can link all the medical information, tests, family history, etc., on the app, and your long-term records can be accessed by doctors when needed.
- Security and consent – The online app is based on strong encryption and security features to ensure your personal information’s safety and confidentiality. Only after your consent can anyone (doctors or others) look at the data.
- Hassle-free registration – You will not have to visit any office or stand in long lines to create an ABHA number. Essential details like your Aadhar card number or driving license can help you generate your unique ID. You can also use your phone number for the same.
- Activate or de-activate voluntarily – This ID is not a compulsion. You can choose to create it if you deem fit and can also choose to remove all the data as and when you wish.
How to create an ABHA Card
The government of India has made it simple for all citizens to apply for an ABHA Card.
- Using the Aadhar – Once you link your phone number to your Aadhar card, you can begin by entering your Aadhar number on the website. You will get an OTP on the registered mobile number. This will help you create your digital card.
- Using the driver’s license – This step will require an enrolment number from the official ABDM portal. This number and your license will be required at the nearest ABDM facility, and you will have to verify your ID then to apply for the ABHA card.
- Using your phone number – Once you visit the website, you can enter your mobile number and submit the OTP. Your personal data will have to be entered, and you can then create your username and password. Save the details for future use.
No need to carry a paper trail with you everywhere you go to access and show your medical information. Once you upload all the data, be rest assured that it will be safe and sound on the platform – all you will have to do is update it as and when necessary.
