The Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) card is a fantastic tool for digitizing healthcare in India, but like any new system, it can come with a few hiccups. Whether you’re struggling with registration, accessing records, or using the card at hospitals, these issues can be frustrating. Based on user experiences and official guidelines as of 2025, here’s a breakdown of the most common problems with the ABHA card and practical solutions to get you back on track.
1. Trouble Registering for an ABHA Card
Issue: You’re trying to create an ABHA card online or via the app, but you’re stuck—maybe the OTP isn’t arriving, or the system rejects your details.
Solutions:
- Check Aadhaar-Mobile Link: Ensure your Aadhaar is linked to an active mobile number, as OTPs are sent there. Visit a UIDAI center or update it online at myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in if needed.
- Use Alternative IDs: If Aadhaar isn’t working, try registering with a driver’s license, PAN card, or voter ID. The ABHA portal (abdm.gov.in) accepts these for verification.
- Stable Internet Connection: A weak network can disrupt OTP delivery or form submission. Switch to a stronger Wi-Fi or mobile data connection.
- Clear Browser Cache: If using the website, clear your browser cache or try a different browser (Chrome or Firefox work best).
- Contact Helpline: Call the ABDM helpline at 1800-11-4477 or email abdm@nha.gov.in for assistance if the issue persists.
2. OTP Not Received During Registration or Login
Issue: You’re entering your Aadhaar or ABHA number, but the OTP isn’t coming through, halting your progress.
Solutions:
- Verify Mobile Number: Double-check that the mobile number linked to your Aadhaar or ABHA profile is correct and active. Update it via the UIDAI portal if necessary.
- Wait and Retry: Sometimes, network delays cause OTP issues. Wait 1-2 minutes, then click “Resend OTP” (limit is usually 3 attempts in 10 minutes).
- Check SMS Settings: Ensure your phone isn’t blocking SMS from unknown numbers or that your inbox isn’t full.
- Use Email Option: If available, opt for OTP via email during registration (some portals allow this as a fallback).
- Visit a CSC: If OTP issues persist, head to a nearby Common Service Center for in-person help with registration.
3. ABHA Number or Address Not Recognized
Issue: Your ABHA number or address (e.g., yourname@abdm) isn’t accepted when you try to log in or share records.
Solutions:
- Double-Check Details: Ensure you’re entering the correct 14-digit ABHA number or the exact ABHA address. Even a small typo can cause errors.
- Regenerate ABHA Address: If you forgot your ABHA address, log in with your ABHA number and create a new address on the portal or app.
- Sync with App: If you created the ABHA via a third-party app (like Doctors App), ensure it’s synced with the official ABHA system. Log in at abha.abdm.gov.in to verify.
- Contact Support: Reach out to the ABDM helpline or use the grievance portal on abdm.gov.in to report recognition issues.
4. Difficulty Accessing or Sharing Health Records
Issue: You can’t view your medical records or share them with a doctor, or the hospital says they can’t access your ABHA data.
Solutions:
- Check Hospital’s ABDM Status: Not all hospitals are fully integrated with ABDM. Verify if the facility is empanelled by checking the hospital list on abdm.gov.in.
- Set Consent PIN: Ensure you’ve set a consent PIN in the ABHA app for sharing records. Without it, doctors can’t access your data.
- Update Records: If records aren’t showing, ensure your doctor or hospital has uploaded them to the ABHA system. Ask them to link reports to your ABHA number.
- Use QR Code: Share your ABHA card’s QR code with the hospital for faster integration instead of manually entering details.
- App Update: Ensure you’re using the latest version of the ABHA app (check Google Play or App Store for updates).
5. Confusion with Linking ABHA to PM-JAY (Golden Card)
Issue: You’re eligible for PM-JAY (Ayushman Bharat Golden Card) but can’t figure out how to link it with your ABHA card for seamless benefits.
Solutions:
- Verify PM-JAY Eligibility: Check if you qualify for PM-JAY on pmjay.gov.in or at a CSC. ABHA doesn’t automatically grant PM-JAY benefits.
- Link at Hospital: When visiting an empanelled PM-JAY hospital, provide both your ABHA number and Golden Card. Many hospitals can link them during treatment.
- Update Profile: Log in to the ABHA portal and ensure your PM-JAY details (if eligible) are added to your profile for integration.
- Seek CSC Help: Visit a Common Service Center to assist with linking both accounts, especially for seniors (70+) under expanded PM-JAY schemes.
