Digital technology linked to monitor non-communicable diseases

RAIPUR,CG(INDIA): In Chhattisgarh, digital technology is being widely used to manage non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and cancer. A key part of the effort is the Ayushman Bharat Health Account (Abha) ID, introduced under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, which is proving to be a significant step forward in improving healthcare delivery.

With an Abha ID, patients can safely store their health records digitally and share them with doctors or health workers whenever needed. It has also made it easier to exchange medical information between hospitals, clinics, and laboratories, leading to better coordination and improved treatment quality.

The state has integrated Abha IDs with the National NCD portal, which has made processes like screening, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of patients more efficient. Mobile and tablet-based apps, along with web portals, have been provided to primary health centres for use by ANMs (Auxiliary Nurse Midwives) and Community Health Officers, making their work simpler and more organized.

According to Dr. Priyanka Shukla, Director of Health Services, creating Abha IDs is a top priority for the state. The digital initiative is helping to prevent and manage chronic diseases more effectively. The impact is already visible in Durg district. From January 2024 to February 2025, a total of 12,627 Abha IDs were linked to NCD patient records. As a result, patient follow-up rates improved significantly—68 percent among patients with an Abha ID, compared to just 37 percent among those without one.

There has also been better control of blood pressure and diabetes among Abha-linked patients, with 49 percent of them managing to keep their conditions under control, compared to only 29 percent among those not linked to the system.

Health workers involved in the program have received training with support from the World Health Organization (WHO). The state government, in collaboration with WHO, is closely monitoring the implementation of the initiative. To further ease the process, WHO has created training videos in Hindi to help health workers understand how to link Aadhaar and demographic details with the Abha ID.