If you have been struggling with keeping records of your health check-ups, prescriptions, and medical tests in physical copies, the Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) can help you access your medical history and records, digitally.

Health is a big concern for senior citizens, but another equally daunting hassle for them is to keep track of all the diagnostics reports, lab reports, prescriptions, doctors’ contacts, and so on, so that these are readily available in times of need.

Typically, document-handling tasks become daunting as one grows old. The ABHA ID can be used in this case. One can even carry an ABHA card anywhere and access healthcare-related records. It provides a comprehensive system for keeping health records organised and accessible.

Senior citizens can benefit from it by easily maintaining their medical records without keeping the bulk of papers, doctors’ prescriptions, bills, etc. Let us know more about it.

What Is An ABHA Card?

Launched under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) on September 27, 2021, this government initiative is aimed at strengthening the digital ecosystem of healthcare in India.

The ABHA card provides a single-point access to the medical records of the ABHA ID holder, which means they can use it at different health centres and hospitals across India to share their medical details and opt for the necessary treatments without having to carry the physical files of their medical records.

Also Read: Here’s How To Lower Your Health Insurance Premium After Retirement

How ABHA Card Is Beneficial For Senior Citizens?

The ABHA card can save seniors from the hassle of record-keeping task. They can even link their ABHA card ID with their health insurance policy. But there are other benefits, too.

Health Records: One can access and share various medical records, such as treatment, consultation, etc., digitally through the ABHA card. There are approximately 510 million ABHA IDs, but only 333 million cardholders have linked their health record with it, according to the latest available data from the National Health Authority. As of December 17, 2023, a total of around 43.80 million ABHA cards have been issued.

Ease Of Sharing: One can avail of medical facilities through this card from medical professionals registered under the programme across India.

According to data from the National Health Authority, Karnataka has the highest number of verified health facilities (47,507), and Uttar Pradesh has the highest number of verified healthcare professionals (45,855), under the initiative.

Voluntary Registration: The registration for ABHA is completely online and voluntary. Also, the ABHA ID or the card will have information about the cardholder’s medical data, but it cannot be shared without the beneficiary or the cardholder’s consent. Thus, it offers better control over sharing of medical data with others. There is also the option to revoke the access or opt out whenever one wants.

Safe Access: The government scheme is safe and secured by necessary digital security measures. As such, there is no risk of unwanted data sharing or theft.

According to data available, the highest ABHA ID holders are in the age groups of 19-45 years at 53 per cent, followed by those in 46-60 years age group at 20 per cent, and 60 years or more at 13 per cent. The low penetration of ABHA among senior citizens could be due to the low awareness about the programme or apprehension towards digital modes of accessing information.

How To Apply?

One can apply for an ABHA card online through the Aadhaar card or Driving licence on the government portal by providing the linked mobile number and authenticate the registration with the OTP.