The healthcare industry in India is rapidly changing, with an increased focus on efficiency gains and digitization. In this context, the Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) card shows itself to be an effective instrument that may greatly improve patient care and hospital operations. Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) was launched by the GOI (Government of India) on 27th September 2021. Hospitals may increase productivity by an astounding 20% by optimising workflows, enhancing data management, and utilising the ABHA card system.
Gold Rate
11 April 2025
In this blog, you will get an in-depth idea about this card.
Why Do You Need an ABHA Card?
An ABHA card contains a 14-digit unique identification number, which is known as ABHA ID. This ID will have all the details about one’s medical history, prescriptions, etc. The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM), which is a digital healthcare initiative of the National Health Authority (NHA) completely manages these cards.
● Comprehensive Coverage
The significant benefit of having an ABHA Card is its inclusive health coverage. It also enables an individual with easy access to a wide network of hospitals and cashless treatment for different types of medical services. It promotes inclusive healthcare by ensuring affordability which results in reducing out-of-pocket expenses for all Indian citizens.
● Paperless Hospitalisation and Treatment
It gives one access to quality healthcare by storing their health records securely online. This makes it easy for doctors to review one’s medical history to provide better and faster medical treatment. It also helps in reducing paperwork which plays a role in improving coordination between different hospitals.
● Financial Security
An ABHA Card provides financial empowerment to individuals by giving them easy access to digital health records. Thus, it helps in reducing medical expenses through government schemes and simplifying health insurance claims. Moreover, it promotes efficient healthcare management which saves one’s time and money.
● Access to AYUSH Healthcare Services
From public health initiatives to insurance programmes, one can receive affordable and high-quality healthcare facilities using an ABHA ID. This includes paperless treatment at both private and public hospitals in India.
● Tax Benefits
While an ABHA Card itself would not help with claiming a tax advantage under Section 80d deduction, you might be asked for your ABHA number when applying for health insurance or filing a claim. This helps link your medical history for better service.
● Easy Activation
Another benefit of having a card is its easy activation process. First one has to start by downloading the ABHA app, registering with their mobile number, and proceeding with the rest of the activation steps. In case you want to know about how to register for an ABHA card, keep reading.
How to Register for an ABHA ID Card?
One can easily apply for your Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) ID card within a few minutes. Below is the step-by-step guide on how to register for an ABHA ID quickly.
Step 1: Surf through the official ABHA website and click ‘create ABHA number’.
Step 2: One needs to select the document type they want to proceed with like an Aadhaar Card/PAN Card/Driving License followed by clicking on the ‘Next’ option.
Step 3: Enter the Aadhaar or Driving License number carefully and then read the declaration.
Step 4: After carefully reading the declaration, select the ‘I Agree’ option to proceed with the registration process.
Step 5: Enter the OTP that will be sent to the registered mobile number followed by clicking on the ‘Submit’ option.
Afterwards, the ABHA identity card registration process will be successful. Then, one can download their ABHA card from the official website of ABDM by logging in to their account. In addition, one can also download this card online from the ABHA mobile application.
Things to Consider While Claiming ABHA’s Health Insurance
Remember, one can claim ABHA’s health insurance only if their Aadhaar number is linked to their mobile number. Below are a few essential things that one must keep in mind to experience a hassle-free claiming process.
- One has to keep one’s ABHA card handy during every medical treatment and assessment.
- You can receive treatment if you have a PM-JAY policy by presenting your ABHA card.
- You can upload your health insurance information to ABHA and pursue your insurance company’s claim procedure if you do not have PM-JAY coverage.
- You must present all medical bills to the hospital while discharging.
- One has to submit the duly filled claim form to their insurance provider along with all medical bills and other necessary documents.
- If one experiences any problem during the claiming process, connect with the local nearby ABHA enrolment centre.
- After you successfully submit your claim, the insurer will go through the raised claim. Only after they approve your claim, will they process it further.
- One must keep track of all the necessary documents like medical bills, reports, etc. for future reference. If you feel dissatisfied with the reimbursement, these documents will help you to file a complaint.
The Bottom Line
Note that not every Indian citizen can create an ABHA card. There are certain criteria, which one needs to meet like your family income must be less than 2.5 lakhs per annum, a valid Aadhaar card is needed, etc. One might also be eligible for free or subsidised treatment based on their eligibility and the healthcare services covered under Ayushman Bharat Yojana.
ACKO has affordable premium options when it comes to health insurance schemes. So, if you intend to purchase one, do contact ACKO.
