The Government of India has initiated various health initiatives to improve the healthcare sector in India. Among them, the ABHA- Ayushman Bharat Health Account Card and Ayushman Bharat Card (also known as PMJAY cards) play an important role in registering health records digitally and offering free health services seamlessly.
While both sorts of cards fall under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, they have different goals and purposes. If you are unsure what card to get, delve deeper to understand the difference between ABHA and Ayushman cards, benefits, and various essential features.
What is an ABHA Card?
The Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) card is part of India's Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM). It is designed to manage and share digitally with registered health professionals. With increasing digitalisation in the health care system, the ABHA card is a step forward towards a paperless and hassle-free medical record system.
Key Features of the ABHA Card:
· Unique 14-lead number
Each individual receives a 14-lead unique ABHA number, which acts as a digital identity for access the specific health records and management.
· Safe Health data storage
Users can store and restore their medical records history, including medical prescriptions, clinical reports and previous treatment, anywhere.
· Interoperability
The ABHA system enables spontaneous data exchange between various network hospitals, clinics and doctors, and ensures effective health care.
· Voluntary registration
Anyone can register for ABHA cards, irrespective of their age, income level or health condition. This feature makes it beneficial for everyone.
· Access to digital health services
Users can digitally combine their health records with registered health professionals, ensuring better coordination between doctors and patients.
What Is an Ayushman Bharat Card (PMJAY Card)?
Ayushmann Bharat cards, also known as the PMJAY card, are part of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY). This initiative provides free health insurance coverage per year of up to 5 lakh per family for financially weaker sections of society. It aims to reduce financial stress for low-income families struggling with high medical expenses.
Key Features of the Ayushman Bharat Card:
· Health insurance coverage
Covers free hospitalisation coverage up to ₹5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care.
· Coverage for secondary and tertiary treatment
It involves serious illnesses, surgery and treatment in an emergency room.
· Cashless hospitalisation facility
Individuals are not required to pay advances for treatment in hospitals in PMJAY-Network, making quality health services available for everyone.
· Qualification-based registration
The scheme is available for the financially disadvantaged families listed in SECC (Socio-Economic Caste Census) 2011 data.
· Covers more than 1500 medical conditions
Treatments cover heart disease, kidney transplants, cancer and other serious and critical diseases.
Difference Between ABHA Card and Ayushman Bharat Card
Key differences between the ABHA card vs Ayushman Card are:
Feature
|
ABHA Card
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Ayushman Bharat Card
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Full Form
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Ayushman Bharat Health Account
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Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) Card
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Purpose
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Digital health record management
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Free health insurance coverage
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Eligibility
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Open to all individuals
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Limited to low-income families as per SECC 2011 data
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Coverage
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Stores health records; does not provide financial benefits
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Provides up to ₹5 lakh per year for hospitalisation expenses
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Cost
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Free to create and use
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Free health insurance, but eligibility-based
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Usage
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Used for maintaining and sharing medical records
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Used for cashless treatments in empanelled hospitals
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Linking with Aadhaar
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Required for verification
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Required for beneficiary identification
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Enrollment
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Voluntary
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Eligibility-based (poverty line households)
|
While both ABHA and Ayushman Bharat Cards are part of the Ayushman Bharat initiative, the difference between ABHA and Ayushman card is due to different set goals. ABHA cards reflect health records, while Ayushman Bharat provides financial assistance for short-term treatment.
Which One Should You Select?
If you want medical records in digital form, the ABHA card is an excellent option. It is useful for spontaneous health services to access and manage prescriptions, medical history and treatment plans. If you belong to a low-income group and require free health insurance, an Ayushman Bharat card (PMJAY) should be one, as it covers hospital settings up to ₹5 lakh.
If you are eligible, you can have both the cards. ABHA cards help maintain digital health records, while Ayushman Bharat cards ensure financial assistance for medical treatment. For those who frequently require hospitalisation, both cards can be advantageous, as it provides easy access to health services and ensures financial safety.
Final Thoughts
ABHA Card and Ayushman Bharat Card are two important initiatives under the Ayushman Bharat scheme aimed at changing India's health care system. While the ABHA card focuses on digital health record management, the Ayushman Bharat card provides financial security for medical expenses.
For people who want spontaneous access to digital health services, ABHA cards are very favourable. Meanwhile, Ayushman Bharat cards are required for low-income families that require free medical coverage.
While government health schemes provide essential benefits, having additional health insurance plans ensures comprehensive medical coverage. Explore Insurance Plans by Generali Central to get wider coverage, cashless treatment options, and financial security for your family.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I have both an ABHA Card and an Ayushman Bharat Card?
Yes, you can have both. ABHA cards are for digital health records, while the Ayushman Bharat card is for free health insurance.
2. Is the ABHA Card mandatory for using the Ayushman Bharat Card?
No, the ABHA Card is not mandatory for PMJAY beneficiaries. However, linking them can help in better record management.
3. How can I check my qualifying for Ayushman Bharat cards?
You can check the qualifying on the PMJAY official website by entering your details and mobile number.
4. Does the ABHA card provide health insurance plans?
No, the ABHA card only stores health records and does not provide health insurance plans for medical treatment.
5. Where can I use the Ayushman Bharat card?
You can use the Ayushman Bharat card in-network hospitals for cashless treatment under the PMJAY scheme.
