The Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) has extended the deadlines for beneficiaries to create and link their ABHA IDs (Ayushman Bharat Health Account Numbers) with their CGHS cards. This office memorandum was dated April 15, 2024.
Revised Timeline:
- ABHA ID Creation: The deadline for beneficiaries to create their ABHA IDs has been extended by 90 days, from the earlier date of June 30, 2024. This means beneficiaries now have until September 30, 2024 to create their ABHA IDs.
- ABHA ID Linking: Beneficiaries have an additional 120 days, until October 30, 2024, to link their created ABHA IDs with their CGHS cards. Previously, the deadline for linking was June 30, 2024.
Benefits of ABHA IDs:
- Improved Portability: ABHA IDs enable secure and digital storage of medical records. Beneficiaries can easily access their medical history across different healthcare providers.
- Enhanced Convenience: ABHA IDs streamline various healthcare processes, potentially reducing paperwork and simplifying online appointment booking or prescription refills.
CGHS Help for Beneficiaries:
The CGHS has assured beneficiaries of assistance during this extended period. Kiosks will be operational at all CGHS wellness centers by June 30, 2024, to aid beneficiaries with:
- Updating their mobile numbers registered with CGHS.
- Correcting errors in their names, year of birth, or gender information in CGHS records.
- Linking their ABHA IDs with their CGHS cards (after ABHA ID creation).
