How to Use an ABHA Health Card?

Updated on - 04 Feb 2026

With an Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) card, you can keep your health records in a single digital ID. It helps you store prescriptions, test results and lab reports, which allow you to access and share them securely with doctors and hospitals anytime and from anywhere. It even supports smooth claim processes when linked with medical insurance.

Read this blog to learn all about the ABHA health card, its benefits, how to open an ABHA account and how to use it.

What is an ABHA card?

The ABHA card is a digital health ID featuring a unique 14-digit identification number assigned to individuals under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM). This digital health ID enables individuals to safely store and access their medical documents, such as doctor consultations, prescriptions, lab reports and discharge summaries, in a single digital repository.

With the ABHA ID, individuals can easily access their medical records anytime and from anywhere, share them with healthcare providers when needed and manage their personal medical records digitally.

Who should create an ABHA card health account?

Any Indian citizen, regardless of age, gender or socio-economic status, can create an ABHA card health account. This is beneficial for all citizens, especially those who:

1. Seek seamless healthcare access: Individuals aiming for hassle-free access to their medical records across different healthcare providers. Linking your ABHA ID with health insurance makes it easy to clear claims and validate insurance details.
2. Desire centralised medical records: Those who prefer maintaining a uniform digital repository of their health information.
3. Value data privacy and control: Individuals who wish to have control over who accesses their health data, ensuring confidentiality.

Benefits of having an ABHA health card

The ABHA health card makes healthcare easier by bringing all your medical records, such as prescriptions and test reports, together in one secure digital ID. It helps reduce paperwork, saves time and prevents the loss of important documents.

You stay in control of your data and can choose who can see your records or cancel access whenever you wish. Registration at ABDM-approved centres is quick since your details are auto-filled, which also means shorter waiting times.

Doctors can access your complete medical history, allowing them to provide better treatment and faster care, especially during emergencies. You can link your health insurance for quicker claim processing and also use government schemes like AB-PMJAY.

The platform makes it simple to find verified doctors, hospitals and AYUSH providers. Moreover, signing up is completely optional, and you can deactivate your account whenever you want.

Documents required for ABHA card registration

To register for the ABHA card, the following documents are typically required:

• Aadhaar Card: Serves as the primary identity and address proof.
• Driving License: Can be used as a substitute for identity verification if Aadhaar is not available.

Make sure that your mobile number is linked to your Aadhaar card, as an OTP verification process is part of the registration. Having these documents ready will facilitate a smooth and quick registration process.

How to link your ABHA card with hospitals and clinics

Follow these steps to link your ABHA card with hospitals and clinics:

Step 1: Go to a hospital or clinic that is part of ABDM.

Step 2: At the reception, scan the QR code using the PHR app on your phone.

Step 3: Give permission in the app to share your health records with the hospital.

Step 4: Your ABHA ID gets linked to the hospital’s system, so doctors can see your medical history.

Step 5: If you don’t have a smartphone, hospital staff at the help desk can link your ABHA ID through your Aadhaar and biometric verification.

Steps to update information on your ABHA Card

When you are updating information on the ABHA card, your mobile number is important for logging in and receiving OTPs for verification.

1. Visit the official ABHA website or open the ABHA app.
2. Log in with your ABHA ID and password or via OTP on your registered mobile.
3. Go to the Profile or My Account section in your dashboard.
4. To update your mobile number, enter the new number and verify it through OTP.
5. If you want to update your name, address or gender, you first need to update your Aadhaar card details online or offline.
6. After updating Aadhaar details, log back into the ABHA portal or app to sync and confirm changes.
7. Save all updates to complete the process securely.

Security and privacy features of the ABHA health card

The ABHA card focuses on providing security and privacy. It uses encryption to protect your medical records. Your data will be shared only with your consent, and you can cancel access whenever you want.

This permission-based model guarantees that your information remains confidential and accessible to the consented healthcare providers. This keeps your digital identity secure and in your control.

Common issues faced during ABHA card registration and how to solve them

The table below shows how you can solve the common problems that arise during ABHA card registration.

Conclusion

The ABHA health card is a secure and easy way to keep all your medical records in one digital ID. It helps cut down waiting periods at hospitals and speeds up medical insurance claims, which gives a smooth and hassle-free healthcare experience. For people with senior citizen health insurance, the ABHA card helps them access medical details and government schemes quickly without extra paperwork.

By combining health data, the ABHA card saves time, protects privacy and gives users better control over their healthcare. To make the most of these benefits, it’s equally important to have the right health insurance. Fill out the form on this page to explore options that best suit your family’s needs.

FAQs

1. Who can create an ABHA card?

Any Indian citizen can create an ABHA card to access and manage their health information digitally.

2. Is my privacy protected with the ABHA card?

Yes, your data is protected and can be shared only with your permission. This is because your data is encrypted, and you can cancel access anytime.

3. Can I update details on the ABHA card?

Yes, update your mobile number and sync Aadhaar-linked personal information anytime online.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.