The ABHA Number (Ayushman Bharat Health Account) is a 14-digit unique identification number that identifies you in India’s digital healthcare ecosystem. Formerly known as the “Health ID,” it was launched under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM).
When you ask “what is ABHA Number,” you are referring to the digital folder for your medical history. Just as UPI unified payments, ABHA unifies health records. It allows you to share your lab reports, prescriptions, and history with doctors digitally, with your consent.
What Does ABHA Number Mean?
It creates a PHR Address (Personal Health Record, e.g., name@abdm).
Components:
– 14-Digit Number: Randomly generated ID (like Aadhaar).
– PHR Address: User-friendly alias.
Why ABHA Number is Important
- Paperless Records: No need to carry big files of X-rays and reports to every doctor.
- Consent-Based: Doctors can view your data only if you approve the OTP request.
- Integration: Works with Cowin (Vaccination), Hospital HMIS, and Lab apps.
Where is ABHA Number Used?
- Hospital Registration: Scan the QR code at the counter to share details instantly (skip the form filling).
- ABHA App: To store and view records.
- Linking Schemes: Linked to Ayushman Card for insurance.
How to Find or Create ABHA Number
Create Online:
1. Visit ABHA Portal.
2. Click “Create ABHA Number”.
3. Use Aadhaar or Driving License.
4. Verify OTP.
5. Download the ABHA Card.
Via Cowin:
If you are vaccinated, you likely already have an ABHA number generated via Cowin. Check your vaccine certificate.
Example of ABHA
Number: 12-3456-7890-1234
PHR Address: ravi.kumar@abdm
Common Problems or Errors
- Photo Mismatch: It fetches the photo from Aadhaar. You can update it in the ABHA profile.
- Forgetting Number: You can login using your PHR Address or Aadhaar to retrieve the number.
Important Things to Remember
- ABHA is voluntary. You can delete it anytime.
- It is NOT an insurance card (that is Ayushman Card). ABHA is just a record keeper.
- Check Ayushman Card Number for the insurance part.
- See PRN Number for Aadhaar services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ABHA Number mandatory?
No, creating an ABHA number is voluntary. However, it makes hospital registrations faster and helps organize your medical history.
What is the difference between ABHA and Ayushman Card?
ABHA is a digital health record ID (for everyone). Ayushman Card is a health insurance card (only for poor/eligible families) providing ₹5 Lakh cover.
Can I delete my ABHA number?
Yes, the portal provides an option to “Deactivate” or “Permanently Delete” your ABHA number if you no longer wish to use it.
How do I link my health records to ABHA?
When you visit an ABDM-compliant hospital/lab, give them your ABHA number. They will push the digital records to your account, which you can view in the ABHA app.
Is my health data safe with ABHA?
Yes, the government claims the system is “Privacy by Design.” Your records are stored by the hospitals, not the government. ABHA just acts as a bridge to view them with your consent.