India has made significant progress toward digitalisation in the last few years through its multiple digital initiatives. The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM), created under the National Digital Health Mission (NDHM) and launched in September 2021, is one such initiative.
The government has already begun to provide citizens across some States and Union Territories with a digital Health ID (Identification card) containing their health records under this initiative. Over time, the government targets to give every citizen of the country a National health card.
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Vital Points to keep in mind about Digital Health ID Card
This article will discuss five critical points about digital health ID cards that everyone should be aware of.
- Through the provision of a wide range of data, information, and infrastructure services, Pradhan Mantri Digital Health Mission (PM-DHM) has created a seamless online platform, leveraging open, integrated, standards-based digital systems while maintaining the security, data protection, and confidentiality of health-related information. This mission has also improved interoperability within the digital health ecosystem in a significant way.
- PM-DHM’s key components cover a technology-based Health ID – a unique 14-digit health identification number – for each citizen, which will also function as their health account. The National Health ID will serve as a repository for a person’s health-related information.
- With the consent of the citizens, the health ID will allow access to and exchange longitudinal health records with health professionals. Also, every cardholder can view their past medical history, including treatment received, with the help of these IDs.
- This health record includes information on every test, every disease, the doctors seen, the medications taken, and diagnosis. This information will be very effective because it is usable and readily available to any health professional, even if the patient moves to a new location and visits a different doctor.
- Every time a patient visits a doctor or a pharmacy, all their information, including prescriptions, will be recorded on their health ID card.
- The Health ID is generated by combining a person’s basic information with their mobile number or Aadhaar number. A mobile application, a Healthcare Professionals Registry (HPR), and Healthcare Facility Registries can be used to link and view personal health records (HFR).
- The NDHM Health ID is free and voluntary. According to the government, analysing health data leads to better planning, budgeting, and implementation for states and health programmes, which is a significant cost saver.
- The government of India intends to issue a health ID card with a unique health account to all Indian citizens as part of the National Digital Health Mission.
Steps to follow while applying for Digital Health ID Card
The digital health ID is generated using the applicant’s basic information, such as their mobile phone number or Aadhaar card number. The application procedure is straightforward. To apply for your digital health ID card, follow the steps outlined below.
Step 1: Visit the National Digital Health Mission’s official website.
Step 2: Select the health ID section and select Create Health ID from the list of options.
Step 3: You will be redirected to a new page where you must select one of the three options listed.
- Create your Aadhaar-based Health ID
- I don’t have Aadhaar / I don’t want to use it to create a Health ID
- Do you already have a Health ID? Login
4th Step: Choose option 1 and enter your 12-digit Aadhaar card number if you have an Aadhaar card and want to use it to create your Health ID card.
5th Step: Choose the second option if you do not have an Aadhaar card or do not want to use it to create a health ID card. When you select this option, you will be able to create your health card by providing your mobile phone number. To complete the application, enter your mobile number and the OTP.
Is it required for all citizens to obtain a Digital Health ID Card?
It is optional to obtain a digital health ID card. You can get it voluntarily and at no cost. However, it is recommended that you obtain this card to use it to gain access to the best healthcare facilities.
To conclude, apply for the NDHM health card by following the above-mentioned steps to get easy accessibility to all your medical records without missing out on any of your earlier medications. This will also help you recover by having thorough checkups from experienced doctors!