The Indian healthcare system is evolving with digital innovations and government-backed health schemes. Two major initiatives, Abha Card & Ayushman Card, are designed to improve accessibility and affordability of medical services. While both serve unique purposes, many people remain confused about their differences and benefits. This article will explore their features, benefits, and key differences to help you make an informed choice.
What is an Abha Card?
Abha (Ayushman Bharat Health Account) Card is a digital health ID that provides a secure platform for storing and sharing health records electronically. It is part of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) and aims to revolutionize healthcare by ensuring seamless access to medical data.
Benefits of Abha Card
- Creates a unique health ID for individuals.
- Digitally stores and manages medical records.
- Enables quick and secure sharing of health data with hospitals and doctors.
- Reduces paperwork and enhances medical history tracking.
- Ensures data privacy and security under ABDM regulations.
What is an Ayushman Card?
Ayushman Card, issued under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), provides free health insurance coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year for economically weaker sections of society.
Benefits of Ayushman Card
- Cashless treatment at empaneled hospitals, including Georgian Super Speciality Hospital.
- Covers hospitalization costs, surgeries, and critical treatments.
- Includes pre- and post-hospitalization expenses.
- Available to families identified in the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011.
- Covers over 1,500 medical procedures in both public and private hospitals.
Key Differences Between Abha Card & Ayushman Card
| Feature | Abha Card | Ayushman Card |
| Purpose | Digital health ID for medical records | Health insurance for low-income families |
| Benefits | Manages and shares health records | Provides free treatment up to ₹5 lakh per year |
| Eligibility | Available to all Indian citizens | Based on SECC 2011 data and PM-JAY criteria |
| Usage | Used for digital storage of medical records | Used for free hospitalization and treatment |
| Coverage | No financial coverage | Covers major treatments, surgeries, ICU care |
| Where to Use | Any hospital using ABDM digital platform | PM-JAY empaneled hospitals like Georgian Super Speciality Hospital |
| Cost | Free | Free for eligible beneficiaries |
How to Apply for Abha Card & Ayushman Card
Steps to Apply for Abha Card
- Visit National Health Authority (NHA).
- Click on ‘Create Your ABHA Number’.
- Enter Aadhaar number, mobile number, and OTP.
- Generate Abha Number and download the digital card.
Steps to Apply for Ayushman Card
- Visit PM-JAY official website.
- Click on ‘Am I Eligible?’ and enter your mobile number.
- Verify your eligibility using Aadhaar or Ration Card.
- Visit the nearest CSC (Common Service Center) or hospital with required documents.
- Get Ayushman Card printed and start availing benefits.
Which Card Should You Choose?
Both Abha Card & Ayushman Card serve important but different roles in the healthcare system.
- If you need digital health records and seamless healthcare management, go for Abha Card.
- If you require free hospitalization and medical treatments, opt for Ayushman Card.
- Ideally, having both cards ensures comprehensive medical coverage and ease of access to health facilities.
Treatment Under Ayushman Bharat at Georgian Super Speciality Hospital
Georgian Super Speciality Hospital, a PM-JAY empaneled hospital, offers advanced treatments under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. Some covered treatments include:
- Neurosurgery
- Cardiac treatments
- Orthopedic procedures
- Dialysis and kidney treatments
- Maternity and neonatal care
For more details, contact 79915 08183.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use both Abha Card & Ayushman Card together?
Yes, you can use both cards. Abha Card helps store your medical history, while Ayushman Card provides free treatment at empaneled hospitals.
2. Is there an age limit for applying for an Abha Card?
No, any Indian citizen can apply for an Abha Card, regardless of age.
3. How do I check my eligibility for an Ayushman Card?
You can check eligibility through the PM-JAY website or visit a Common Service Center (CSC) with Aadhaar or Ration Card.
4. Can I get an Ayushman Card without Aadhaar?
No, Aadhaar verification is mandatory to generate an Ayushman Card.
5. Does the Ayushman Card cover OPD services?
No, the Ayushman Card primarily covers hospitalization and major treatments but not OPD services.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between Abha Card & Ayushman Card helps individuals choose the right healthcare benefits. While Abha Card ensures seamless health record management, Ayushman Card provides financial assistance for medical treatments. For expert healthcare services under Ayushman Bharat, visit Georgian Super Speciality Hospital or contact 79915 08183.
Make an informed choice today and secure your health for the future!