What is the difference between ABHA card and Ayushman card?

Read on to know what is ABHA and Ayushman cards and how are they different from each other.
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3 min
23-February-2024

Healthcare is one of the most essential aspects of human life, and it becomes more significant, particularly for those who struggle to afford it. The government of India has launched various initiatives to ensure accessible and affordable healthcare to citizens, regardless of their economic status. Among these programs, ABHA (Ayushman Bharat Health Account) and Ayushman Bharat card are two significant initiatives taken by the Government.

However, understanding the differences between the ABHA card and the Ayushman Bharat card is crucial for individuals seeking healthcare support. In this article, we will discuss the benefits, coverage, and key points of difference between an Ayushman Bharat Card and ABHA health ID card.

What is ABHA (Ayushman Bharat Health Account)?

Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) is an initiative under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission. Under this, a 14-digit health ID number is created for every individual which links all healthcare benefits, be it public health programmes or health insurance schemes with your ABHA ID. Given below are the key features of Ayushman Bharat Health Account:

  • Establishing a singular identity across various healthcare providers within the healthcare network.
  • Connect all healthcare perks, spanning from public health initiatives to insurance plans, to your unique ABHA health ID number.
  • Hassle-free online registration process for healthcare facilities across the country.
  • Effortlessly register for PHR (Personal Health Records) applications like ABDM for streamlined health data sharing.

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Read more: How to download ABHA Health ID card

What is Ayushman Bharat Card?

Ayushman Bharat Yojana, also known as Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, aims to extend healthcare benefits to economically weaker families in India. Ayushman card is given to beneficiaries enrolled under Ayushman Bharat Yojana or Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY). This card facilitates free medical treatment up to Rs. 5 lakh per family per year at hospitals enlisted under Ayushman Bharat for the scheme's participants.

Read more: PMJAY Registration Process in 2024

Difference between ABHA health ID and Ayushman card

The table given below shows the difference between ABHA health ID and Ayushman card:

Parameters ABHA health ID Ayushman card
Purpose ABHA card serves as a digital repository for all health records, ensuring easy accessibility and sharing. Ayushman card is issued to beneficiaries of the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, enabling cashless treatment at network hospitals.
Eligibility Available to all Indian nationals Designed for economically weaker sections of society, registered under PMJAY. Exclusively for the underprivileged individuals identified by the Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC).
Benefits Offers a unique 14-digit identification number for accessing medical records digitally. Provides cashless hospitalisation benefits.
Coverage Facilitates access to health records from any location. Every family is entitled to up to Rs. 5 lakh per year.
Enrolment Voluntary Mandatory for eligible individuals
Income group All citizens of India from all income groups can register for ABHA heath ID number. Ayushman cards are for the low- income group


In conclusion, while the ABHA health ID card and the Ayushman Bharat card are integral components of India's evolving healthcare landscape, understanding their differences is essential for individuals seeking healthcare support. By leveraging the benefits offered by these cards, individuals can navigate the complexities of healthcare financing more effectively, ensuring timely access to quality medical treatment when needed.Initiatives like ABHA emphasize on the importance of healthcare in the country and significance of health insurance in India.

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