The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) announced on Tuesday that linking the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) beneficiary ID with the Ayushman Bharat Health Account ID will be mandatory starting from April 1. A directive issued by CGHS states that all current beneficiaries must link their CGHS Beneficiary ID with their Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) ID, effective from April 1, 2024.
“It has now been decided that linking of CGHS beneficiary ID with ABHA ID shall be mandatory w.e.f 15th April 2024. The linking of CGHS Beneficiary ID with ABHA ID shall be completed within 30 days by all existing CGHS Beneficiaries,” the statement said.
The purpose of linking the CGHS beneficiary ID with the ABHA ID is to establish a digital health identification system for CGHS beneficiaries and store their digital health records.
The Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) was initiated in 1954 to provide comprehensive health care to Central Government employees, pensioners, and their dependent family members. Currently, the scheme covers over 41 lakh beneficiaries in 75 cities.
CGHS serves the healthcare needs of eligible beneficiaries from various sectors, including the Legislature, Judiciary, Executive, and the media. It is recognized for its extensive coverage and generous approach to providing healthcare, making it the preferred healthcare provider for Central Government employees and pensioners.