Understanding Your IHI Number: What It Is and Why It Matters

In Australia, healthcare is increasingly moving into the digital space — and with that comes new systems designed to protect your information and make accessing care easier.
One of these systems is the IHI: your Individual Healthcare Identifier.

At Aunty Jane, we use e-scripts and digital health tools to make accessing healthcare more simple, discreet, and timely. Having your IHI number verified is essential for us to provide you with prescriptions and care safely and legally.

What is an IHI Number?

An Individual Healthcare Identifier (IHI) is a unique 16-digit number that identifies you for healthcare purposes. It’s linked to your personal information, like your full name, date of birth, gender, and Medicare or Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) records.

Think of it like your healthcare passport — it helps different healthcare providers securely access and share your health information if needed, and it’s mandatory for services like electronic prescriptions (e-scripts).

Why is an IHI Number Needed?

• To issue electronic prescriptions (e-scripts) securely.

• To connect healthcare services safely (such as pathology requests, imaging, pharmacy, telehealth, etc.).

• To protect your identity and privacy within the Australian healthcare system.

Without a valid IHI, you cannot be issued an electronic script in Australia — even if you have a Medicare card.

How to Find or Set Up Your IHI Number

If you have a Medicare card:

✅ You already have an IHI number.
You just need to find it or verify it if needed.

Step-by-Step:

1. Login to your Medicare account online via myGov.

2. Select "Medicare".

3. Go to "My Details" or search for "Individual Healthcare Identifier (IHI)".

4. Your IHI number should be listed there. It’s a 16-digit number.

If you can't see it:

• Check your details (name, date of birth) exactly match what’s on your Medicare card.

• Call the Medicare general enquiries line on 132 011 to ask for your IHI.

If you don't have a Medicare card (e.g., international student, working holiday visa, refugee):

✅ You can still get an IHI number — it’s free.

Step-by-Step:

1. Go to the Services Australia IHI page.

2. Scroll to "Get an IHI".

3. Select "Apply online" and create a myGov account if you don’t already have one.

4. Provide identification documents (passport, visa, proof of age).

5. Complete the IHI application form online.

6. Your IHI number will be issued to you, usually immediately or via email within a few days.

You can also apply by calling 1300 361 457 (for people without Medicare) if you prefer phone support.