Individual Healthcare Identifier (IHI)

An Individual Healthcare Identifier is a unique number used to help identify a person in Australia's healthcare system. It supports accurate matching of health information. It is different from a Medicare number and does not, by itself, make someone eligible for Medicare benefits or other subsidised services. Services Australia: Individual Healthcare Identifiers

Why a digital health service may ask for it

Electronic health systems need to match information to the correct person. An IHI can support that process, including access to relevant digital health services. Check that the personal details you provide are accurate and consistent with the identifier record.

If a mismatch occurs, ask the service what information needs correction and contact the appropriate official service. Do not create a second identity or use a relative's number to bypass an error message. That could attach health information to the wrong person.

Having an identifier is not a clinical approval

An IHI helps with identification; it does not establish that a prescription is appropriate or that a consultation can be completed remotely. A clinician still needs to assess the concern and meet ordinary professional requirements. Medical Board telehealth guidelines

It also does not determine the fee. Ask the provider separately about private costs, Medicare eligibility and any pharmacy charges. A successful identity check is not confirmation that a benefit will be paid.

If you do not have Medicare

Services Australia provides information about obtaining an IHI for eligible people who do not have Medicare or DVA details. Follow the official process and check the documents required. Avoid relying on an unofficial site asking for unnecessary personal information. Services Australia: Individual Healthcare Identifiers

Doccio's eScript information explains the digital prescription pathway. Before booking, confirm the service's current identification requirements and scope. If an eScript cannot be issued because information does not match, ask what correction is needed; a new paid consultation may not be the appropriate first step for an administrative identity problem.