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What are the Terms and Conditions of Using Your ABHA Health ID Card

The Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) is a pivotal step in India’s digital healthcare transformation. This health ID card offers a unique identification number that facilitates the secure exchange and access of health records across healthcare providers. However, like any government-backed digital initiative, the ABHA card comes with a set of terms and conditions that users must understand before opting in. In this guide, we break down the usage conditions, privacy policies, benefits, and steps for ABHA card download.

What is an ABHA card?

An ABHA card is a 14-digit number that enables users to access and share their digital health records with hospitals, clinics, and insurance providers. It is part of the National Digital Health Mission (NDHM) initiated by the Indian government, aiming to create a seamless health ecosystem.

This card is voluntary, and individuals can create it through the official portal using an Aadhaar number or driving licence. Once created, it allows users to store their health data digitally, giving them better control and continuity of care.

Terms and conditions of using your ABHA card

Using the ABHA card implies acceptance of a set of terms laid down by the National Health Authority (NHA). These terms ensure responsible usage, protect user data, and maintain transparency across healthcare stakeholders.

Here are the key terms and conditions you should be aware of:

1. Voluntary participation

  • Creation and usage of the ABHA card are completely voluntary.
  • Users can opt in or opt out at any time without impacting their access to healthcare services.

2. Informed consent

  • Your health data will be accessed and shared only with your explicit consent.
  • Consent is granular – users can choose which data to share, with whom, and for how long.

3. Control over personal data

  • Users maintain full control over their personal health data.
  • You can manage consents, revoke access, or delete your health ID anytime.

4. Use of Aadhaar is optional

  • Though Aadhaar can be used to generate the ABHA card, it is not mandatory.
  • Alternative identity proofs such as driving licence or mobile OTP verification are available.

5. No automatic data sharing

  • No health records are automatically linked to your ABHA ID without your permission.
  • You must actively allow health facilities to access or add data.

6. No commercial usage

  • Your health data cannot be sold or used for marketing or commercial purposes.
  • Any violation by a healthcare facility may result in suspension from the ecosystem.

7. Data security and encryption

  • All data transactions within the ABHA system are encrypted using end-to-end encryption.
  • The government implements strict protocols to prevent unauthorised access or misuse.

8. Deactivation and deletion

  • You can choose to deactivate your ABHA number temporarily or permanently delete it.
  • In case of deletion, your data and health records stored on the Health Locker will also be erased.

9. Responsibility of data providers

  • Hospitals, clinics, and doctors accessing or uploading data to your ABHA profile must follow strict guidelines.
  • Misuse or unauthorised access is punishable under the Information Technology Act and Data Protection Bill.

10. ABHA address (username)

  • Alongside the 14-digit ID, you get an ABHA address (e.g., username@ndhm).
  • This address helps in securely logging in to the ecosystem and linking various services.

Key benefits of the ABHA card

Despite the conditions mentioned, the ABHA card offers several practical benefits to individuals and healthcare professionals alike:

  • One health ID across India – eliminates the need to carry physical documents.
  • Faster treatment access – doctors can view past reports and prescribe accordingly.
  • Data portability – records can be shared across hospitals and states seamlessly.
  • Better insurance experience – speeds up claim processes with verified digital data.
  • Health Locker integration – securely store lab reports, prescriptions, and discharge summaries.

Steps to download your ABHA card

Follow these steps for ABHA card download after you’ve registered on the platform:

Step 1: Visit the official portal

Go to the ABHA portal or use the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission app.

Step 2: Log in

Choose one of the following login methods:

  • Mobile OTP
  • Aadhaar authentication
  • ABHA address (username@ndhm)

Step 3: Access your dashboard

Once logged in, your beneficiary dashboard will display your ABHA number and personal profile.

Step 4: Download your ABHA card

Click on the “Download ABHA Card” option.

  • A PDF copy of your ABHA card will be generated.
  • You can save it or take a printout for offline reference.

You may also receive a QR code or digital pass that can be stored in your smartphone for quick access.

Who can use the ABHA card?

The ABHA Card is available to all Indian citizens, irrespective of age or health status. It is especially useful for:

  • Senior citizens with frequent hospital visits
  • Chronic patients with long-term health records
  • Policyholders needing easier insurance claims
  • Travellers accessing treatment across different states
  • Pregnant women and children with ongoing medical documentation

ABHA and health insurance

Many insurers and third-party administrators (TPAs) have started accepting ABHA-linked records for claim validation. While it’s not yet mandatory for health insurance claim settlement, it significantly reduces documentation delays. Future versions may also include integration with maternity insurance and women-specific health benefits.

Final thoughts

The ABHA health ID card aims to simplify healthcare access in India by creating a single, universal identity for every individual. By accepting the terms and conditions listed above, users can participate in a digitally secure and health-conscious future.

Before using the card, always review your consent settings, share only with trusted providers, and ensure you download the ABHA Card from the official site. With increased awareness and responsible use, the ABHA initiative has the potential to revolutionise India’s healthcare ecosystem.

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