Leh: In a significant move towards digital healthcare, Sanjeev Khirwar, Principal Secretary of Health and Medical Education, UT Ladakh, launched the Ladakh Medical Census App at a formal event held in his conference hall.
Developed by Deachean Chuskit, State Lead of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM), the App enables health officials to conduct a digital medical census by scanning ABHA (Ayushman Bharat Health Account) cards, which automatically fetch resident data.
For those without ABHA IDs, the app integrates with Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) systems to generate new ones. Ration card numbers are also required, and PMJAY-eligible family members will be included in the survey, focusing on health issues across the region.
Khirwar emphasized the need for manual data entry options for individuals without Aadhaar or ABHA cards, ensuring no one is left out. He also sought information on the percentage of residents currently holding Aadhaar cards to better understand identification coverage in the region.
Chuskit outlined the app’s features, technical process, and compliance with national security standards, highlighting that it has been certified through a Web Application Security Assessment. Health officials added that the census aims to build a comprehensive health database to inform better policy-making and public healthcare planning.
Khirwar appreciated the Health Department’s efforts and encouraged the team to continue refining the app through field practice. He recommended regular updates, user feedback mechanisms, and the addition of features to address on-ground challenges.
The launch also marked the beginning of training sessions for census teams, including field surveyors from the National Health Mission (NHM) and trainers such as ASHA who will guide the teams on app usage and data collection procedures.
The event was attended by Rinchen Chosdol, Medical Superintendent of SNM Hospital Leh, the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of Leh, and other members of medical teams, all of whom expressed strong support for the initiative and its potential to transform healthcare delivery in Ladakh.
