Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM)
India's vision for a connected, digital healthcare ecosystem – explained simply
Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM), launched in 2021, is India's initiative to create a unified digital health ecosystem. Think of it as a digital backbone connecting patients, doctors, hospitals, and health records.
1. ABHA (Health ID)
Unique 14-digit health ID for every citizen. Like Aadhaar for healthcare.
2. Health Records
Digital storage of prescriptions, lab reports, discharge summaries.
3. Health Information Exchange
Secure sharing of health data between hospitals and doctors with consent.
4. Healthcare Registry
Verified database of doctors, hospitals, labs, and health facilities.
| Aspect | ABDM | PMJAY |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Digital Infrastructure | Health Insurance |
| Purpose | Health records & IDs | ₹5 lakh coverage |
| For Whom | All citizens | Eligible families |
| Output | ABHA Health ID | Ayushman Card |
| Portal | abha.abdm.gov.in | beneficiary.nha.gov.in |
No more carrying paper reports – all records stored digitally
Easy doctor switching – share complete history with new doctors
Emergency access – critical health info available during emergencies
Avoid repeat tests – previous test results accessible to new doctors
Faster Ayushman treatment – linked ABHA speeds up hospital processes
Privacy control – you decide who sees your health data
Visit abha.abdm.gov.in and click "Create ABHA"
Choose verification method: Aadhaar or Mobile number
Complete OTP verification
Create your ABHA address (e.g., yourname@abdm)
Your 14-digit ABHA number is generated. Download your ABHA card!
FAQs – ABDM & Digital Health
Disclaimer: ABDM is evolving. Features and capabilities may change. Visit abdm.gov.in for latest updates.