Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) has requested all patients to bring their Aadhaar cards during visits to facilitate the generation of Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) IDs. The ABHA ID system, part of the Indian Government’s initiative for digital healthcare integration, is a one-time identification that links a patient’s medical history across healthcare facilities nationwide, enabling doctors to access records instantly.
Dr. Achyut Baishya, principal of GMCH, highlighted the importance of ABHA IDs, as mandated by the National Medical Commission (NMC). “NMC guidelines now prioritize ABHA ID registration, as it will soon be required for official OPD records across the country,” Dr. Baishya said. He noted that the system streamlines patient care by making records digitally accessible to authorized providers, reducing reliance on physical documents and enhancing continuity of care.
In compliance with NMC directives, GMCH has set a daily target of 1,600 registrations. However, Dr. Baishya explained that the process often faces delays as many patients arrive without Aadhaar cards or ABHA IDs. To address this, GMCH has established an on-site facilitation system where staff assist patients in creating their ABHA IDs using Aadhaar. “Although Aadhaar is requested for streamlined access, treatment will not be denied to those without it,” he assured.
By integrating ABHA IDs, GMCH aims to improve healthcare quality by minimizing repeat tests and ensuring accurate diagnostics. This digital record enables seamless follow-up and specialist referrals, providing doctors with a comprehensive view of each patient’s medical history.
