What Is the NDHM Health Card and How to Apply?
Ever struggled to find an old medical report when you needed it the most? Or had to repeat your entire medical history to a new doctor because your previous records were nowhere to be found? If this situation sounds familiar, then the NDHM Health Card might just be the solution you’ve been waiting for.
But what exactly is it? How does it work? And most importantly, how can you get one? We answer it all. So, without further ado, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
What is the National Digital Health Mission (NDHM)?
The National Digital Health Mission (NDHM) was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Independence Day, 2020. It is basically a digital health ecosystem where all your medical information will be stored in one place and that too in a very secure and efficient way.
Over 15 crore Digital Health IDs have been created under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission. This helps people access and manage their health records online.
Why Was NDHM Introduced?
The primary objective of introducing the National Digital Health Mission was to revamp India’s health sector by ensuring easy accessibility of patient records, focusing on privacy and security.
The following are the things it looks into:
- Digital Health Records – Your medical history, prescriptions, test reports etc. can be stored online and accessed as and when required.
- Health ID for Every Citizen – A unique ID will be provided to all the citizens that will be linked with the basic healthcare scheme.
- Standardized Healthcare System – All hospitals, clinics and health service providers will be working on a single digital system.
In simple words, NDHM wants to make healthcare become smarter, faster and safer.
Key Features of the NDHM Health Card
Here’s what you get when you register for an NDHM Health Card:
- Aadhaar for health – One ID that will link everything and anything related to your medical records.
- Easy access to healthcare – Your doctors can know your history easily, no repeated tests or explaining the condition again and again.
- Data Privacy and Security – Your health information is stored securely and can only be accessed with your consent.
- Online Consultations & Digital Prescriptions – No more carrying paper reports, everything is available digitally.
- Nationwide Access – Your health records are always with you if you change cities or visit a new doctor.
Benefits of Holding an NDHM Health Card
Why should you get this card? Let’s talk about some real benefits.
1. No More Lost Medical Records
Ever lost a prescription or an important test report? With NDHM, all your records are stored digitally, so you never have to worry about misplaced paperwork.
2. Ideal for Chronic Illness Patients
If you have conditions like diabetes, heart disease or arthritis, then keeping track of old reports is essential. The NDHM Health Card makes sure the doctors have all your medical history and thus can give you better treatment.
3. Say Goodbye to Paper Mess
Many doctors still write prescriptions and other documents in their own handwriting, which can be lost or misread. With the NDHM system, all of these documents will be digitised.
4. Faster & More Efficient Healthcare
Doctors can instantly get your records, leading to less diagnosis time and avoiding tests you've already done before.
5. Telemedicine Becomes Easier
You can use your phone to consult, book online appointments and get prescriptions via teleconsultation with the help of NDHM.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for an NDHM Health Card
And now, onto the main discussion – how to apply for an NDHM Health Card. It’s quick and easy, and can be done online with:
- Aadhaar Card
- Driving Licence
Through Aadhaar Card
- Visit the official NDHM website.
- Click on ‘Generate ID’ and select ‘Generate via Aadhaar’
- Enter your Aadhaar Number and click on submit.
- Verify using the OTP sent to your registered Mobile Number.
- Download your NDHM Health Card.
Using Driving Licence
- Go on the NDHM site and click ‘Generate ID’.
- Select ‘Generate via Driving Licence’, enter your licence number, and submit.
- Get an enrollment number.
- Visit an empanelled hospital or clinic for verification.
- Once verified you will be sent your NDHM Health Card through SMS or Email.
Once you follow these steps, your digital health record is ready!
Eligibility Criteria for NDHM Health Card
Not sure if you qualify? Here’s what you need to know:
- Indian Citizen – Only Indian nationals are eligible. NRIs cannot apply.
- Mandatory Aadhaar Card – You should have a valid Aadhaar card for registration.
- No Income or Caste Restrictions – NDHM Health Card is open to all, irrespective of income or caste.
- Annual Income Preference – Government mainly focuses on families with annual income less than ₹2.5 lakh.
Required Documents for NDHM Card
To complete your application, you will require:
- Aadhaar Card – Mandatory for registration.
- Bank Account Details – Necessary for financial transactions with respect to healthcare (if applicable).
- Medical History Declaration – Helps doctors in searching for past medical records in order to provide better treatment.
- Domicile Certificate – Proves the state of residence, and may be requisite for being eligible in some health schemes.
The NDHM Health Card has transformed the way people currently access their medical records, make consultations, and manage health care, all in a secure manner.
Most importantly, the application process is easy, quick, and free! So, for those who have not gotten it yet, get your NDHM Health Card today and take your health record ownership.
