Importance of patient identification and use of patient’s identifier as per NABH / JCI

                             Dr Madhav Madhusudan Singh 

Introduction

Patient identification is a crucial aspect of healthcare delivery, and it is important to have a proper system in place to ensure accurate patient identification. In this essay, I am going to discuss the patient identification process and the use of two identifiers in hospital settings, as per the guidelines of the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers (NABH) and Joint Commission International (JCI). Patient identification is a critical aspect of healthcare, and its importance cannot be overstated. The use of patient identifiers helps in accurate and timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. In India, the healthcare industry has been grappling with patient identification challenges due to various reasons, including inadequate infrastructure, lack of standardization, and patient mobility across various healthcare facilities.

Patient Identification

Patient identification is the process of verifying the identity of a patient before providing any healthcare services. It is an important step to ensure that the right patient receives the right treatment. There are different methods for patient identification, including visual identification, asking the patient to state their name and date of birth, or using identification wristbands.

Two Identifiers

NABH and JCI recommend the use of two patient identifiers to ensure accurate patient identification. Two identifiers refer to using two pieces of information to confirm the patient's identity. The two identifiers may include the patient's full name, date of birth, unique identification number, or any other unique identifier.

Rationale for Using Two Identifiers

The rationale for using two identifiers is to minimize the risk of patient misidentification, which can have serious consequences, including medical errors, delayed treatment, and even death. Using two identifiers can help reduce the risk of errors by providing an additional layer of confirmation that the right patient is receiving the intended treatment. It also helps to ensure that patients are matched with their correct medical records, and their care is documented accurately.

Implementation of Two Identifiers

The implementation of two identifiers involves several steps, including staff training, patient education, and the use of appropriate technology. Here are the steps to implement a two-identifier system:

1.  Develop policies and procedures: Develop policies and procedures for patient identification and two-identifier system. These policies should include the use of two identifiers, where to place identification wristbands, how to manage patient information, and how to handle any discrepancies.

2.  Staff training: Train all staff members on the importance of accurate patient identification and the use of two identifiers. Staff should also be trained on how to check and confirm the patient's identity, how to handle any discrepancies, and how to properly document any patient identification issues.

3.    Patient education: Educate patients on the importance of accurate identification and the use of two identifiers. Patients should also be informed about the type of information that will be used to identify them, and the location of identification wristbands.

4.    Use of technology: Use technology to support the two-identifier system. This may include electronic health records, barcode scanners, or other technologies that can help verify patient identity.

 

20 of the most common problems faced by hospital staffs in patient identification:

1.  Incomplete patient data: Patients may not provide all necessary information during registration, making it difficult to correctly identify them.

2.  Name variations: Patients may use different names or spellings of their name, leading to confusion in identification.

3.  Similar or identical names: Patients with similar or identical names may be confused for each other, leading to incorrect identification.

4. Missing identifiers: Patients may not have or may forget to bring their identification documents, making it difficult to verify their identity.

5.    Language barriers: Patients who do not speak the same language as hospital staff may have difficulty communicating their identification information.

6. Lack of standardized procedures: Hospitals may not have consistent identification procedures across departments, leading to confusion and errors.

7.   Human error: Hospital staff may make mistakes in entering or verifying patient identification information.

8.  Technical errors: Electronic systems used for identification may malfunction or produce incorrect information.

9. Illegible handwriting: Handwritten patient identification information may be difficult to read, leading to errors.

10.Time pressure: Hospital staff may feel rushed to complete patient identification procedures, leading to mistakes.

11.Inadequate training: Hospital staff may not be properly trained in patient identification procedures, leading to errors.

12.Incorrectly entered data: Patient identification information may be entered incorrectly, leading to errors.

13.Patient refusal: Patients may refuse to provide identification information or may provide false information, leading to errors.

14.Patient unconsciousness: Patients who are unconscious may not be able to provide identification information or confirm their identity.

15.System incompatibility: Hospital systems used for patient identification may not be compatible with each other, leading to errors.

16.Inadequate record-keeping: Patient identification information may not be properly documented, leading to errors.

17.Patient transfer: Patients may be transferred from one department or hospital to another, leading to confusion in identification.

18.Outdated identification documents: Patients may have outdated identification documents, leading to errors.

19.System security: Hospital systems used for patient identification may be vulnerable to security breaches or hacking, leading to errors or fraud.

20.Lack of patient participation: Patients may not actively participate in the identification process, leading to errors or confusion.

 

Quality and Patient Safety Related Benefits of Patient Identification

Patient identification and the use of patient identifiers have several quality and patient safety benefits that are recognized by NABH and JCI.

1.  Prevents medication errors  : One of the most significant quality and patient safety benefits of patient identification is the prevention of medication errors. In healthcare, medication errors are a common problem that can result in adverse events, such as drug toxicity, allergic reactions, and even death. Patient identification helps to prevent medication errors by ensuring that the right medication is given to the right patient. For example, if a patient is incorrectly identified, they may be given medication that is intended for another patient, which can have serious consequences. By using patient identifiers, such as the patient's name, date of birth, and medical record number, healthcare providers can ensure that the correct medication is given to the correct patient.

2.  Reduces the risk of wrong-site surgeries  : Another quality and patient safety benefit of patient identification is the reduction of the risk of wrong-site surgeries. Wrong-site surgeries occur when a surgical procedure is performed on the wrong body part or on the wrong patient. These types of errors can have serious consequences for patients, including permanent disability or even death. Patient identification helps to reduce the risk of wrong-site surgeries by ensuring that the correct patient is identified before the procedure. By using patient identifiers, such as the patient's name, date of birth, and medical record number, healthcare providers can ensure that the correct patient is in the operating room and that the correct surgical site is marked before the procedure.

3. Improves patient outcomes  : Patient identification and the use of patient identifiers can also lead to improved patient outcomes. When patients are correctly identified, healthcare providers can ensure that they receive the appropriate care and treatment for their condition. For example, if a patient has a particular medical condition or allergy, healthcare providers can identify this information using patient identifiers and adjust their treatment accordingly. By providing the right care and treatment, healthcare providers can improve patient outcomes and reduce the risk of adverse events.

4. Enhances patient satisfaction : Patient identification and the use of patient identifiers can also enhance patient satisfaction. When patients are correctly identified, healthcare providers can address their concerns and provide personalized care that meets their specific needs. Patients are more likely to feel valued and respected when healthcare providers use their name and other personal information to address them. By enhancing patient satisfaction, healthcare providers can improve patient engagement and encourage patients to take an active role in their care.

5.    Facilitates communication and collaboration : Patient identification and the use of patient identifiers also facilitate communication and collaboration among healthcare providers. When patient information is accurate and up-to-date, healthcare providers can communicate more effectively and make informed decisions about patient care. For example, if a patient has a particular medical condition or allergy, healthcare providers can use patient identifiers to communicate this information to other members of the care team, such as nurses and pharmacists. By facilitating communication and collaboration, healthcare providers can ensure that patients receive coordinated and comprehensive care.

Legal issues in Patient Identification

The Indian legal system has played a vital role in addressing these challenges and providing guidance on the use of patient identifiers in healthcare.

1.  National Legal Services Authority vs. Union of India (2014) : The National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) vs. Union of India case is a landmark judgement by the Supreme Court of India regarding the recognition of the transgender community and their rights. The case also emphasized the importance of ensuring accurate identification of patients in healthcare settings. The judgement directed all government and private hospitals to create separate wards for transgender people and ensure that they are not discriminated against in any form. The judgement also highlighted the importance of patient identification and directed hospitals to use proper identification methods to ensure that patients receive proper treatment.

2.   Achutanand Mishra vs. State of Bihar (2019) : The Achutanand Mishra vs. State of Bihar case is another important judgement related to patient identification. The case dealt with the issue of identifying victims of sexual assault and ensuring their privacy and safety during medical examinations. The judgement directed hospitals to use unique identification methods to ensure that victims' identities are protected, and their privacy is maintained. The court also directed hospitals to use pseudonyms instead of the victim's real name during the medical examination and treatment.

3.   Kunal Saha vs. AMRI Hospital (2013) : The Kunal Saha vs. AMRI Hospital case is a landmark judgement related to medical negligence in India. The case involved the death of Dr. Saha's wife due to medical negligence in a private hospital in Kolkata. The judgement emphasized the importance of proper patient identification and the use of patient identifiers in hospitals. The court directed all hospitals to use patient identification methods such as barcoding, RFID tags, or biometric identification to ensure that patients receive proper treatment and medication. The judgement also highlighted the need for standardization in patient identification methods and the need for hospitals to maintain accurate medical records.

 

Conclusion:

Accurate patient identification is critical for patient safety, and the use of two identifiers can help minimize the risk of patient misidentification. NABH and JCI recommend the use of two patient identifiers, and the implementation of this system involves staff training, patient education, and the use of appropriate technology. By using two identifiers, healthcare providers can ensure that the right patient receives the right treatment. patient identification is a critical aspect of healthcare, and its importance cannot be overstated. The Indian legal system has played a vital role in addressing patient identification challenges and providing guidance on the use of patient identifiers in healthcare. The above-mentioned cases highlight the importance of proper patient identification, the use of patient identifiers, and the need for standardization and privacy protection in healthcare.

Dr Madhav Madhusudan Singh MBBS, MHA , MBA , Ph.D.

https://twitter.com/madhavsingh1972

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-madhav-madhusudan-singh-07139a26/

 

How to protect electronic health records (EHRs) to protect patient data and provide security.

                                                     Dr Madhav Madhusudan Singh 

Electronic health records (EHRs) contain sensitive and confidential information about patients, such as their medical history, diagnoses, treatments, and personal information. As such, it is critical to protect patient data and ensure the security of EHRs. Here are ten ways to protect patient data and provide security of electronic health records:

1.    HITECH Compliance: The Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act provides incentives for healthcare providers to adopt and use electronic health records (EHRs) while also strengthening the privacy and security protections of patient health information. HITECH Compliance involves complying with the rules and regulations outlined in the Act, which includes conducting a security risk analysis, implementing safeguards, and training staff on security protocols.

2.  Security Audit: Conducting regular security audits of EHR systems can identify potential vulnerabilities and risks. By assessing the security of systems and identifying potential weaknesses, healthcare providers can take steps to address any issues and improve the overall security of EHRs.

3.  Data Encryption: Encrypting data can help protect patient information from unauthorized access. Encryption involves converting information into a code or cipher that can only be deciphered with a key. By encrypting patient data, healthcare providers can help ensure that the information is protected even if it falls into the wrong hands.

4.    Password Protection: Password protection is a simple yet effective way to protect EHRs. Passwords should be strong, unique, and changed regularly. Multi-factor authentication can also be used, which involves requiring users to provide two or more forms of identification to access EHRs.

5. One ATCB Certification: The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) established the Authorized Testing and Certification Body (ATCB) program to certify EHR technology. One ATCB certification means that the EHR technology has met certain standards and requirements for security and privacy. Healthcare providers can select EHR technology that has been certified by an ATCB to help ensure that patient data is protected.

6.  Access Controls: Access controls limit who can access EHRs and what actions they can perform. Healthcare providers can use access controls to restrict access to patient data to only those who need it to provide care. For example, access controls can limit access to EHRs based on job role or department.

7.    Audit Trails: Audit trails can help healthcare providers monitor who has accessed patient data and what actions they have taken. By keeping track of access and activity, healthcare providers can detect potential security breaches and take appropriate action.

8. Employee Training: Employees who work with EHRs should be trained on security protocols and best practices. Training can help employees understand the importance of protecting patient data and how to properly handle sensitive information.

9.    Disaster Recovery Plan: A disaster recovery plan outlines how healthcare providers will respond to and recover from a security breach or other disaster that affects EHRs. By having a plan in place, healthcare providers can minimize the impact of a security breach and ensure that patient data is protected.

10.Data Backups: Regular data backups can help ensure that patient data is not lost in the event of a security breach or system failure. Backups should be stored securely and tested regularly to ensure that the data can be recovered if needed.

 

The Legal Framework for EHRs in India

Electronic health records (EHRs) have the potential to revolutionize the healthcare industry by providing accurate and accessible patient information in real-time. However, with the digitization of health records, there comes the need for compliance to protect the privacy and security of patient data. In India, the compliance requirements for EHRs are guided by the Information Technology Act, 2000 (ITA 2000) and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of the USA.

In India, the ITA 2000 provides the legal framework for the management and protection of electronic health records. The act defines the legal requirements for electronic records and electronic signatures, and it outlines the rules for privacy and security in the digital space. It also establishes the framework for the use of digital signatures, authentication, and encryption for data protection.

Apart from the ITA 2000, there are other acts, rules, and guidelines that govern the use and management of EHRs. The following acts are relevant to EHRs in India:

1.    The Clinical Establishments Act, 2010: The act regulates the registration and functioning of clinical establishments in India. It mandates the maintenance of medical records, which can be in electronic form.

2.    The Indian Medical Council (Professional Conduct, Etiquette, and Ethics) Regulations, 2002: The regulations provide guidelines for the maintenance of medical records and the confidentiality of patient information.

3.    The Information Technology (Reasonable Security Practices and Procedures and Sensitive Personal Data or Information) Rules, 2011: The rules prescribe the data privacy and security requirements for sensitive personal data or information, including health-related information.

Compliance Requirements for EHRs in India

The compliance requirements for EHRs in India are as follows:

1.    Data Privacy: EHRs contain sensitive patient information, and therefore, data privacy is of utmost importance. The ITA 2000 mandates that personal data or information cannot be collected, used, or disclosed without the consent of the patient. The data should be collected for a lawful purpose and should be used only for that purpose. The data should not be retained for longer than necessary.

2.    Data Security: The ITA 2000 mandates the use of reasonable security practices and procedures for the protection of electronic records. The security measures should include access controls, firewalls, encryption, and other measures to prevent unauthorized access, tampering, and disclosure of patient information.

3.    Electronic Signatures: The ITA 2000 recognizes electronic signatures as legally binding, provided they meet certain requirements. The signatures should be unique to the signatory, linked to the data in a way that can identify any changes to the data, and created using a secure process.

4.    Data Retention: The Clinical Establishments Act, 2010 mandates the maintenance of medical records for a period of three years from the date of discharge of the patient. The records can be in electronic form, provided they are accessible and can be produced on demand.

5.    Audit Trails: The ITA 2000 mandates the use of audit trails to track access to patient records. The audit trails should be maintained for a period of at least one year and should record the identity of the user, the time and date of access, and the actions performed.

 

Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems brand available in India

There are several Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems available in India. Here are some examples with their brand names and specifications:

1.    Practo: Practo is a cloud-based EHR system that offers a range of features including appointment scheduling, patient records management, e-prescriptions, lab integrations, and more.

2.    MyOPD: MyOPD is an EHR system designed specifically for clinics and small healthcare setups. It offers features such as patient records management, e-prescriptions, appointment scheduling, lab integrations, and more.

3.    Medisoft: Medisoft is an EHR system designed for hospitals and larger healthcare setups. It offers features such as patient records management, appointment scheduling, lab integrations, pharmacy integrations, and more.

4.    KareXpert: KareXpert is an AI-based EHR system that offers features such as patient records management, appointment scheduling, e-prescriptions, lab integrations, and more. It also offers telemedicine services.

5.    CureMD: CureMD is a cloud-based EHR system that offers features such as patient records management, appointment scheduling, e-prescriptions, lab integrations, and more. It also offers revenue cycle management services.

It's important to note that the specifications of these EHR systems may vary depending on the specific version or package purchased. It's recommended to evaluate each EHR system based on your specific needs and requirements before making a decision.

Protecting patient data and ensuring the security of electronic health records is crucial for healthcare providers. Implementing these ten strategies, including HITECH Compliance, security audits, data encryption, password protection, One ATCB Certification, access controls, audit trails, employee training, disaster recovery plans, and data backups, can help healthcare providers protect patient data and prevent security breaches.

 

Dr Madhav Madhusudan Singh MBBS, MHA , MBA , Ph.D.

https://twitter.com/madhavsingh1972

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-madhav-madhusudan-singh-07139a26/

"Respectful Disagreement: Navigating Differences with Superiors to Reach Common Goals"

                                    Dr Madhav Madhusudan Singh

Disagreeing with a superior can be a difficult and delicate situation, especially when the stakes are high and the outcome of the decision could affect the success of a project or the organization as a whole. However, there are times when it is necessary to speak up and express a different point of view in order to achieve the best possible outcome. In this essay, we will explore some strategies for disagreeing with a superior to achieve a common goal, with examples and references to real-life situations.

Focus on the common goal

When you disagree with a superior, it's important to remember that you are both working towards the same goal. By keeping this in mind and framing the discussion around the shared goal, you can help to prevent the conversation from becoming adversarial. For example, if you are working on a project and your superior suggests a course of action that you disagree with, you could start the conversation by acknowledging the shared goal, and then explaining why you think a different approach might be more effective. This can help to create a more collaborative environment where everyone's ideas are valued.

An example of this approach can be seen in the decision-making process of the U.S. military. In the military, it is common practice for subordinates to question the decisions of their superiors if they believe that it is necessary for the success of the mission. This is known as "principled dissent," and it is based on the idea that open and honest communication is essential for effective decision-making. By focusing on the shared goal of the mission, soldiers are able to express their opinions without fear of retribution, and leaders are able to make informed decisions that take into account all available information .

Use data and evidence

 

When you disagree with a superior, it's important to have a solid foundation for your argument. This means using data and evidence to support your position. By doing so, you can help to convince your superior that your perspective is based on objective facts, rather than personal opinion. For example, if you are working on a marketing campaign and your superior suggests a strategy that you think won't be effective, you could use data from previous campaigns to support your position. This can help to create a more data-driven decision-making process that is less prone to bias.

One example of this approach can be seen in the case of the startup company Sumo Logic. When Sumo Logic was first starting out, the company's CEO wanted to focus on selling their software to large enterprises. However, the company's CTO disagreed, arguing that there was a larger market for mid-sized businesses. To support his position, the CTO gathered data on the number of mid-sized businesses in the market and their software needs. This data helped to convince the CEO that the CTO's perspective was the more profitable one, and the company ultimately shifted its focus to mid-sized businesses.

Be respectful and professional

When you disagree with a superior, it's important to do so in a respectful and professional manner. This means avoiding personal attacks and maintaining a constructive tone throughout the conversation. By doing so, you can help to prevent the conversation from becoming confrontational or emotional, which can hinder effective decision-making. For example, if you are working on a project and your superior suggests a course of action that you think is flawed, you could express your disagreement by saying something like, "I see your point, but I have a different perspective on this issue. Here are my reasons for thinking that our approach might not work." This approach is more likely to be well-received than a more confrontational tone.

In a hospital setup, it's not uncommon to encounter situations where you may need to disagree with a superior to achieve a particular goal. However, it's important to remember that the ultimate objective in any hospital setting is to provide quality patient care. Therefore, any disagreement or difference of opinion should always be approached in a respectful and professional manner that prioritizes the patient's wellbeing.

Disagreeing with a superior in a hospital setting can be challenging, especially if the superior is a senior physician or administrator with more experience and knowledge in the field. However, it's crucial to remember that everyone's opinion matters and that effective communication is essential to reach a common ground.

Approach the conversation with a positive mindset

It is important to approach the conversation with a positive attitude and the intention of finding a solution. Focus on the common goal of providing the best care for the patient. Remember that your superior is ultimately responsible for the patient's care, and their decisions are made with the best interests of the patient in mind. Therefore, it is important to approach the conversation with respect and professionalism, even if you disagree with their decision.

Choose the appropriate time and place

Choose an appropriate time and place to have the conversation. The setting should be private and conducive to a meaningful discussion. It is best to avoid having the conversation in front of other staff members or patients. Arrange a meeting with your superior at a convenient time, when they are not under stress or pressure.

Use effective communication skills

Effective communication is key to a successful conversation. Be clear, concise, and respectful in your communication. Use "I" statements instead of "you" statements to avoid sounding accusatory. For example, say "I think there may be a better way to approach this situation" instead of "You're doing it wrong." Listen actively to your superior's perspective and acknowledge their points of view. Ask questions to gain a better understanding of their reasoning.

Provide evidence and support your position

When disagreeing with a superior, it is important to have evidence to support your position. Research the topic and gather data and references to back up your argument. Use objective, factual information rather than subjective opinions. For example, if you are suggesting a different treatment plan, provide evidence from recent studies or clinical guidelines to support your proposal.

Offer alternative solutions

When presenting your disagreement, it is important to offer alternative solutions that align with the common goal of providing the best care for the patient. Offer specific and actionable solutions that address the issue at hand. Be open to compromise and find a solution that works for everyone involved.

Dr Madhav Madhusudan Singh MBBS, MHA , MBA , Ph.D.

https://twitter.com/madhavsingh1972

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-madhav-madhusudan-singh-07139a26/

Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) - Dream come true

  Dr Madhav Madhusudan Singh

 

Introduction:

Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) is an ambitious initiative by the Government of India, aimed at transforming the healthcare sector of the country through the use of digital technology. The mission was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 27th September 2021. The mission aims to create a unified digital health ecosystem that connects all stakeholders, including patients, doctors, hospitals, insurers, and regulators, to enable better healthcare delivery, monitoring, and management.

The primary objective of the program is to make healthcare services more accessible and affordable for people in India. ABDM is a part of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), which is a flagship program of the government aimed at providing health coverage to the economically weaker sections of the society.

The ABDM program is designed to create a digital infrastructure for the healthcare industry in India. It will enable the seamless exchange of health-related information between different stakeholders in the industry, including patients, doctors, hospitals, insurance providers, and government agencies. The program will leverage cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and cloud computing to achieve this objective.

The government has not made it mandatory for people or healthcare providers to register for ABDM. However, the program is still in its early stages, and it is possible that the government may make registration mandatory in the future.

As on date , ABHA Number Created ( 21,89,02,765 ) , Health Facilities Registered ( 53,269 )  , Doctors Registered ( 11,677 ) . This speaks the credibility of this program.

How to Get Registered: Steps and requirements for hospital registration under ABDM

Step 1: Check Eligibility Criteria  : The first step towards hospital registration under ABDM is to check the eligibility criteria. The hospital should meet the following eligibility criteria to get registered:

1.    The hospital should be a multi-specialty hospital with at least 50 beds.

2.    The hospital should have a valid registration certificate from the state government or the central government.

3.    The hospital should have a valid PAN card and GST registration certificate.

Step 2: Create an Account on AB-PMJAY Portal  :The second step is to create an account on the AB-PMJAY portal. The portal is the official platform for hospital registration under ABDM. The hospital needs to create an account on the portal to start the registration process. To create an account, the hospital needs to follow these steps:

1.    Go to the AB-PMJAY portal (https://pmjay.gov.in/)

2.    Click on the "Hospital Login" button on the top right corner of the homepage.

3.    Click on the "Create Account" button.

4.    Enter the required details like hospital name, email address, phone number, etc.

5.    Verify the account through the OTP sent to the registered mobile number.

For registration, you can visit the official website of Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission: https://abdm.gov.in/ and follow the registration process as mentioned on the website. You can also contact the National Health Authority (NHA) for more information on registration and implementation of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission. Their contact details can be found on their website: https://pmjay.gov.in/

Step 3: Provide Hospital Details Once the account is created, the hospital needs to provide its details on the AB-PMJAY portal. The following details are required to be provided:

1.    Hospital Name and Address

2.    Contact Details (Phone Number, Email, Fax)

3.    Hospital Type (Government, Private, Trust)

4.    Registration Details (Certificate Number, Validity)

5.    Accreditation Details (If any)

6.    PAN Card and GST Registration Certificate

7.    Bank Account Details (IFSC Code, Bank Name, Account Number)

Step 4: Upload Documents  : The hospital needs to upload the following documents on the AB-PMJAY portal:

1.    Registration Certificate issued by the state or central government.

2.    PAN Card and GST Registration Certificate.

3.    Accreditation Certificate (If any).

4.    Bank Account Details (Cancelled Cheque or Bank Statement).

5.    Hospital Infrastructure Details (Photos and Videos).

Step 5: Get Hospital Assessment Done After the hospital details and documents are submitted on the AB-PMJAY portal, an assessment team will visit the hospital for physical verification. The assessment team will verify the details provided by the hospital and will also check the infrastructure and facilities available at the hospital.

Step 6: Receive Approval and Login Details  : After the assessment is completed, the hospital will receive the approval for registration on the AB-PMJAY portal. The hospital will also receive the login details for the portal through which it can access the PMJAY services and claim payments for the treatments provided to the PMJAY beneficiaries.

 

Benefits:

1.      Access to a digital health ID: ABDM provides a unique digital health ID to every individual who registers for the program. This ID will contain the person's health-related information, such as medical history, prescriptions, and test results. The ID can be accessed by the person and their authorized healthcare providers, making it easier for them to manage their health.

2.    Improved Access to Healthcare Services: ABDM aims to create a unified digital health ecosystem that connects all stakeholders, including patients, doctors, hospitals, insurers, and regulators, to enable better healthcare delivery, monitoring, and management. This will lead to improved access to healthcare services for people across the country, especially those living in remote and rural areas.

3.    Improved Quality of Healthcare Services: ABDM will enable doctors and healthcare providers to access patient records, diagnostic reports, and other critical information in real-time, which will enable them to provide better healthcare services to their patients. This will lead to improved quality of healthcare services and better health outcomes for patients.

4.    Cost Savings: ABDM will enable insurers and regulators to monitor healthcare delivery and management more effectively, which will help to identify and eliminate inefficiencies and reduce costs. This will lead to cost savings for patients, insurers, and the government.

5.    Improved Healthcare Research: ABDM will create a vast repository of health data that can be used for healthcare research and development. This will lead to better understanding of health issues, identification of risk factors, and development of new treatment options.

6.    Greater Transparency: ABDM will enable greater transparency in the healthcare sector, as all stakeholders will be able to access and share information in real-time. This will help to eliminate fraud and corruption and improve the overall integrity of the healthcare system.

Drawbacks:

1.    Privacy Concerns: ABDM involves the collection and sharing of sensitive health data, which raises concerns about privacy and data security. It is important to ensure that appropriate safeguards are in place to protect patient privacy and prevent misuse of data.

2.    Digital Divide: ABDM relies on digital technology, which may pose a challenge for people who do not have access to digital devices or internet connectivity. It is important to ensure that adequate infrastructure and support are in place to ensure that everyone can benefit from ABDM.

3.    Implementation Challenges: ABDM is a complex initiative that involves multiple stakeholders and requires coordination and collaboration across different levels of government and the private sector. The success of ABDM will depend on the effective implementation of the initiative and overcoming various challenges that may arise.

Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission is a significant initiative that has the potential to transform the healthcare sector in India. By creating a unified digital health ecosystem, ABDM aims to improve access to healthcare services, enhance the quality of healthcare services, reduce costs, enable healthcare research, and promote greater transparency in the healthcare sector. However, to ensure the success of ABDM, it is important to address various challenges and concerns, including privacy, digital divide, and implementation challenges, and ensure that appropriate safeguards and support are in place to enable everyone to benefit from ABDM.

Dr Madhav Madhusudan Singh MBBS, MHA , MBA , Ph.D.

https://twitter.com/madhavsingh1972

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-madhav-madhusudan-singh-07139a26/

 

Join the mission to Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission

The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) aims to develop the backbone necessary to support the integrated digital health infrastructure of the country. It will bridge the existing gap amongst different stakeholders of Healthcare ecosystem through digital highways.