There is a rapid growth in the healthcare sector of the bustling metropolis of Hyderabad which houses a rich culture and IT hub. To protect yourself and your family members from the financial challenges that may occur due to unforeseen medical costs, it is essential that you acquire a health insurance.
In order to provide valuable insights into the different types of health insurance policies available to you, factors and steps you may need to consider and to help you understand the process of acquiring a policy, this guide will assist you throughout.
In India, health insurance serves as a financial cushion, providing coverage for various hospitalization-related medical costs. Having a financial safety net in case of sickness or injury gives you peace of mind.
To ensure that you don’t deplete your financial savings due to unforeseen medical costs, health insurance comes into play.
Quality hospitals and health specialists can be acquired as health insurance opens up multiple such options.
The need for upfront payments is eliminated as many health insurance plans offer cashless hospitalization facilities.
There are numerous tax benefits that one can get for health insurance premiums under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act.
Also Read: Understanding Tax Benefits: How Health Insurance Impacts Your Taxes
A single individual is covered under this plan.
Under a single policy, multiple members of the family are covered.
A policy that caters especially to elderly people.
Upon diagnosis of critical illness, a lumpsum amount is paid to the individual.
Based on your age, health history, and the size of your family, choose an insured sum that perfectly covers the medical costs.
For convenient access to cashless treatments, opt for a plan that covers a wider range of network hospitals in Hyderabad.
Check if the policy you are acquiring covers pre-existing conditions and check if there’s a waiting period.
Take into consideration additional optional health insurance riders like maternity benefits, personal accident cover, or dental coverage.
In order to find the best deal, compare premiums from different insurers.
To understand the efficiency of the health insurance policy thoroughly research the insurance company’s claim settlement ratio.
Also Read: Things to consider while buying health insurance plans
Based on factors like your age, health, and size of the family, determine your coverage requirements.
Compare premiums, features, and network of hospitals after obtaining multiple quotes from different insurance companies.
Choose a plan that best aligns with your needs and budget.
Important documents like age proof, income proof, and medical records should be furnished and provided to the insurance company (if applicable).
To activate your insurance policy, make the initial premium payment.
Conclusion
Buying health insurance in Hyderabad is necessary to protect your financial health. Understanding the various kinds of plans, considerations, and steps can help you choose a policy that suits your specific needs and make an informed decision. Keep in mind, that purchasing a health insurance policy is a way to invest in your well-being and mental stability.
Do you want to know about the health insurance options available to you? Reach out to us by calling 1800 266 9693 via phone or email us at support@elephant.in for further information, or browse Elephant.in website!
*Terms and conditions apply. The information provided in this article is generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. You are recommended to obtain specific professional advice from before you take any/refrain from any action. Tax benefits are subject to changes in tax laws. Please contact your tax consultant for an exact calculation of your tax liabilities.| EL/BLOGS/24-25/22
In today’s increasingly rapid society, having health insurance is crucial because unforeseen medical crisis can occur, putting families at risk financially. Cashless health insurance, a widely favored and convenient choice, provides a security blanket by paying for medical costs without the need for initial payments. Policyholders have the option to get treatment at network hospitals, where the insurance provider will directly pay the bill, instead of paying upfront and waiting for reimbursement later, making the process easier and less stressful.
This guide will provide a comprehensive explanation of cashless medical insurance for individuals who are not familiar with health insurance, covering its definition, advantages, functioning, and important takeaways. Having this information allows you to make educated choices and guarantee that you and your loved ones are financially secure in the event of medical emergencies.
Cashless health insurance policy is a kind of medical insurance that allows policyholders to get treatment without making immediate payments. Instead of paying hospital bills upfront and seeking reimbursement after, the insurance company pays the hospital bill directly. Healthcare providers partnered with the insurance company offer this service at in-network hospitals.
In a place such as India, where healthcare costs can be burdensome, cashless health insurance offers significant relief. In times of crisis, it guarantees access to vital medical treatment without the burden of raising money.
Treatment under cashless medical insurance is applicable only at in-network hospitals, part of the insurance company’s approved list. Every insurance provider offers a list of network hospitals where the cashless facility can be availed.
For planned hospitalization, advance notice (usually 48-72 hours prior to admission) needs to be provided to the insurance company. In the case of emergency hospitalization, this can be done within 24 hours. Once a network hospital is selected, a pre-authorization form, completed with the assistance of the hospital’s insurance desk, will be submitted to the insurance company for approval.
After receiving the pre-authorization form, the insurance company verifies that the treatment is covered under the policy. Upon approval, the bill settlement between the hospital and the insurance company takes place directly. The amount covered depends on the sum insured and the policy terms.
After treatment, the hospital sends the final invoice to the insurance provider for settlement. Any costs not covered by the policy, such as consumables or registration fees, must be paid separately. Once the settlement is complete, the patient is discharged without having to pay large bills upfront.
Also Read: Things to know about cashless health insurance
One of the biggest advantages is the elimination of the need to arrange funds during medical emergencies, as the expenses are settled directly between the insurance provider and the hospital.
Cashless Health insurance reduces paperwork related to reimbursement claims, simplifying the process by avoiding the submission of multiple documents and bills after treatment.
Cashless health insurance provides access to reputed hospitals, ensuring quality healthcare services.
Cashless health insurance offers immediate financial support, allowing patients and families to focus on treatment and recovery during medical emergencies.
Leading insurance companies in India have a vast network of hospitals, ensuring the cashless facility can be accessed nationwide, including at multispecialty providers.
A wide range of medical treatments is typically covered by cashless medical insurance. Common treatments include:
Inpatient stay, nursing charges, doctor’s consultation fees, and surgery costs.
Medical expenses incurred before and after hospitalization, generally for a specified number of days.
Procedures not requiring 24-hour inpatient hospitalization, such as cataract surgery, dialysis, or chemotherapy.
Emergency transportation to the hospital via ambulance is often included in the policy.
Some policies cover diagnostic tests and prescribed medications during hospitalization.
Also Read: Things to consider while buying health insurance plans
Review the list of in-network hospitals before purchasing a policy to ensure that nearby, efficient, or preferred hospitals are part of the insurer’s network.
Familiarity with the claim process is essential. Understand the time limits for notifying the insurance provider about planned or emergency hospitalization.
Read the policy carefully to understand what is covered. Some treatments or pre-existing conditions, like dental care, may be excluded.
Some policies include sub-limits on treatments or hospital room types. For example, coverage may only extend to a shared room, and choosing a private room could result in additional costs.
Timely pre-authorization is crucial for a smooth cashless claim process. Completing this step can help avoid delays during hospitalization.
Be mindful that not all expenses are covered under cashless insurance. For instance, toiletries, consumables, or registration fees may need to be paid out of pocket.
Conclusion
Selecting the right policy aligned with personal and family healthcare needs is an essential step in ensuring adequate coverage. A policy with a comprehensive network of hospitals, familiarity with the claim process, and awareness of sub-limits and exclusions is vital to maximizing the benefits of cashless medical insurance.
Are you interested in knowing what health insurance choices you have? For additional information, visit Elephant.in or give 1800 266 9693 a call or send an email to support@elephant.in!
*Terms and conditions apply. The information provided in this article is generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. You are recommended to obtain specific professional advice from before you take any/refrain from any action. Tax benefits are subject to changes in tax laws. Please contact your tax consultant for an exact calculation of your tax liabilities.| EL/BLOGS/24-25/21
In order to protect yourself from the weight of medical expenses, getting health insurance is essential. Your health insurance premium changes as you grow older due to growing health risk concerns. To understand how age plays a key role in determining insurance premiums in India, we are going to take you through the relationship between age and insurance costs in this blog.
Payments that you make periodically to your particular insurance company for protection are called health insurance premiums. The type of coverage you choose, your lifestyle, age and state of health are certain factors upon which these premiums are calculated.
One of the main factors that affect health insurance premiums primarily is age. Your risk of a health issues arising increases as you grow older. When setting premium costs, insurance company take into consideration this increased risk. This is why age plays a key role:
Age related diseases like hypertension, heart problems and diabetes are more common in older individuals. It leads to higher claim costs for the insurance companies as treatments for these kind of diseases are costly.
Subsidized premiums are offered to senior citizens by some government health insurance schemes. However, certain limitations are implied on network hospitals and on coverage under these schemes.
To calculate premiums based on various factors, including age, insurance companies utilize the actuarial models. Statistical probability of health insurance policy claims at different age groups are considered by these models. Your health insurance premiums may increase gradually to be in tune with the higher risk associated with the age group you are in as you age.
There are several other factors that influence your health insurance premium, leaving aside the most important factor that is age:
You can be subjected higher premiums if there is a pre-existing medical condition or a family history of certain diseases.
Having a habit of smoking, consuming alcohol, or a sedentary lifestyle can lead to an increase in health risks and which in turn leads to an increase in premiums.
Having a high premium means that the sum insured is also high. An adequate sum insured should be chosen to make sure that the medical expenses are covered.
A greater flexibility in accessing healthcare is provided if an insurance plan with a wider network of hospitals is chosen but at the same time, the premiums for the same will be higher.
Conclusion
Despite being a significant factor, age is not the sole determinant of health insurance premiums. By understanding the various factors that impact your premium, you can make informed decisions when selecting a health insurance plan that provides adequate coverage at a reasonable price. Remember that prioritizing your health and leading a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the impact of aging on your insurance.
Are you curious about the benefits that health insurance could provide? To get more details, check out Elephant.in or contact 1800 266 9693 or email support@elephant.in!
*Terms and conditions apply. The information provided in this article is generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. You are recommended to obtain specific professional advice from before you take any/refrain from any action. Tax benefits are subject to changes in tax laws. Please contact your tax consultant for an exact calculation of your tax liabilities.| EL/BLOGS/24-25/20
The vibrant city of Pune is famous for its lively culture and its ever growing healthcare facilities. In order to safeguard yourself and your family from unexpected hospitalization costs it is essential that you get yourself and your family a health insurance when living in Pune.
The process of acquiring health insurance, valuable information on various policies available, key factors to consider and the important steps to purchase will be highlighted in this blog post.
To pay for various medical costs and hospitalisation costs, health insurance plans come into the play as a form of financial protection during such unexpected situations. Peace of mind can be achieved in situations where one is injured or sick due to the protection provided by the health insurance.
To avoid using up your savings and to pay for expensive medical expenses a health insurance is a must.
Top notch hospitals and expert treatment can be utilised if one has a health insurance.
Cashless hospitalizations services can be availed which removes the necessity of making advance payments when one has health insurance.
Through Section 80D of the Income Tax Act, the Indian government grants tax benefits for health insurance premiums
In Pune, different kinds of health insurance policies can be found:
Only an individual will be apt for this kind of coverage.
All family members will be insured under this type of insurance coverage.
In cases of serious illnesses, Critical Illness Insurance give a one-time payment to cover for the medical expenses.
To cover your medical costs considering your age, health factors and family size, select a proper sum insured.
Choose a plan with an extensive hospital network in Pune for easy access to cashless medical care.
Make sure to verify coverage and waiting period for pre-existing conditions.
Consider additional options such as maternity benefits, personal accident coverage, or dental insurance.
In order to choose the most favourable options, compare various insurance options and their rates.
To comprehend an insurance company’s promptness, do a thorough investigation of their claim settlement ratio.
Also Read: A Step-By-Step Guide To Navigating Health Insurance Claims
Determine the required level of coverage by taking into account your age, health, and the size of your family.
Obtain quotations from many insurance companies, then compare the variations in features, costs, and coverage within the network.
Select the solution that most closely matches your needs and budget.
Send in the proper paperwork, including proof of age, evidence of income, and (if needed) medical records.
Submit the first premium payment in order to initiate your policy.
Also Read: Factors Influencing Health Insurance Premiums: What You Need to Know
To prevent gaps in coverage and ensure continuous benefits.
Notify your insurance provider of any updates to your address, health condition, or family information.
Familiarize yourself with the policy’s terms and conditions to prevent confusion when making claims.
Utilize all the advantages provided by your health insurance coverage.
Numerous insurance companies provide online platforms for convenient management of policies and submission of claims.
Conclusion
Buying health insurance in Pune is necessary to protect your financial stability. Understanding the various kinds of plans, factors to think about, and steps included can help you make a knowledgeable choice and obtain a thorough policy that fits your exact requirements. Don’t forget, having a health insurance policy is a way to invest in your well-being and mental calmness.
Do you have interest in exploring the health insurance policies available to you? Get in touch with Elephant.in either by calling 1800 266 9693 or sending an email to support@elephant.in for more information, or simply visit Elephant.in!
*Terms and conditions apply. The information provided in this article is generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. You are recommended to obtain specific professional advice from before you take any/refrain from any action. Tax benefits are subject to changes in tax laws. Please contact your tax consultant for an exact calculation of your tax liabilities.| EL/BLOGS/24-25/19
For every responsible car owner in India, acquiring car insurance is vital but it can be quite a task when it comes to determining the cost/premiums of the insurance. In order to help you make informed decisions and for you to accurately estimate your coverage costs, we will break down the important factors to consider in this insightful blog.
An individual is protected from unpredictable events such as accidents, theft/burglary or damage if he has car insurance policy. To ensure financial assistance in such scenarios, you pay a premium. The cost of your premiums may, however, be impacted by multiple variables.
Due to elevated costs of repairs for high-end luxury vehicles, they incur higher premium costs. Manageable premium rates are for economical cars such as hatchbacks.
Premiums can also be influenced by the amount of distance you have driven. Pay as you drive is a type of insurance the calculates the premium you will be paying as per the distance you have driven.
Your premium range can be affected as per the location your car is registered in. In densely populated or high-risk areas, your rates could rise, whereas they could decrease in less populated areas.
You might save around 50% on your own damage premiums by qualifying for NCB due to not making any claims in the previous year.
Opting for comprehensive car insurance coverage increases your expenses but protects your vehicle along with the mandatory Third Party Insurance.
Adding extra coverage options such as zero depreciation cover and roadside assistance may result in higher premiums.
3rd-Party or Comprehensive Coverage is completely your choice
The current market value of your vehicle affects both the premium and compensation in the event of total loss.
Consider optional features and select only those essential to your coverage.
If you’ve maintained a claim-free record, you may be eligible for a reduced premium.
Age, make, and model of the vehicle impacts the overall premium.
Age, driving experience, and location also affect the final calculation.
Many online aggregators provide tools to help you calculate your premium based on the provided data.
Conclusion
Understanding all the factors that impact your insurance premiums makes it simple to make a well-informed choice and select a customized car insurance policy for yourself.
We are constantly available to assist you. Get in touch with us at 1800 266 9693 or send us an email at support@elephant.in for more information on car insurance options, or just head to Elephant.in!
*Terms and conditions apply. The information provided in this article is generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. You are recommended to obtain specific professional advice from before you take any/refrain from any action. Tax benefits are subject to changes in tax laws. Please contact your tax consultant for an exact calculation of your tax liabilities.| EL/BLOGS/24-25/18
Even though purchasing a new car can be a thrilling experience, it is important not to overlook one crucial aspect: car insurance. To protect your investment from any unpredictable situations, it is essential to know about the intricacies of car insurance. Here is a simple guide to assist in understanding car insurance while buying a new vehicle.
Car insurance is an agreement between an individual and an insurance company that provides insurance coverage for vehicles. On receiving the premium amount, the insurance company will cover specific expenses in case of damage, theft, or accidents involving your car.
In India, it is required by law to have third-party car insurance. It includes payments for harm or injuries to others, excluding damage to your personal vehicle. Choosing full coverage insurance is advised because it includes protection for both third-party losses and any damages to your own car.
Both third-party claims and damages to your vehicle are covered. While more expensive, the extensive protection offered can provide peace of mind.
As the minimum required by law, this covers damages to others but leaves your vehicle unprotected. Although cheaper, this option could expose you to additional costs if the vehicle sustains damage.
Higher premiums are typically attracted by high-end vehicles due to increased repair costs.
Older cars generally come with lower premiums because of reduced market value.
Living in metropolitan areas can lead to higher premiums due to greater risks of accidents or theft.
Lower premiums can be earned by maintaining a clean driving record, as it suggests a lower risk to insurers.
Extensive protection is provided when one acquires a comprehensive car insurance, even though it costs more.
Also Read: Understanding Different Types of Car Insurance Coverage
The No Claim Bonus (NCB) serves as an incentive for drivers who exhibit responsible behavior on the road. If there are no claims filed within the policy year, policyholders can receive a discount of up to 50% on their own damage premium for the next year. This helps to save money and promote safer driving behaviors.
The maximum amount that the insurance company will pay out in the event that the vehicle is declared stolen, or a total loss is the IDV, which represents the car’s present value. Better coverage is provided by a higher insured stated value; nevertheless, the premium is usually higher. It is critical to strike the ideal balance between scope and expense.
Full compensation is provided without accounting for depreciation, making this a smart choice for new car owners.
Covers engine damage from specific issues like waterlogging—a real concern in some areas.
Provides peace of mind if the vehicle breaks down.
You will come across a good car insurance policy after scouting through different plans and their quotes both online and offline.
Ensure the policy meets protection needs, rather than simply opting for the cheapest option.
This indicates how effectively an insurer handles claims—an essential factor in the decision.
Comprehend what is covered and not covered to prevent unexpected surprises in the future.
Regular drivers or individuals in high-risk locations could see greater advantages with comprehensive insurance.
Though dealers commonly provide insurance at the time of sale, it may not always be the most advantageous option. Make sure to compare quotes from different providers as many of them have fast online quotes available for a more efficient evaluation of options.
When upgrading from an old car, transferring the No Claim Bonus to the new policy can lead to significant savings. Insurers should be notified about the NCB transfer during the purchase process.
Conclusion
Getting the proper insurance for a new car is just as important as buying the car itself. By understanding the fundamentals, conducting comparisons, and making knowledgeable choices, both vehicle and financial protection can be guaranteed. Always aim for a balance between coverage and cost to find the ideal policy.
Reach out at 1800 266 9693, email support@elephant.in, or visit Elephant.in to explore car insurance options!
*Terms and conditions apply. The information provided in this article is generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. You are recommended to obtain specific professional advice from before you take any/refrain from any action. Tax benefits are subject to changes in tax laws. Please contact your tax consultant for an exact calculation of your tax liabilities.| EL/BLOGS/24-25/18
The bustling metropolis of Delhi also has serious health issues. Due to rising medical care costs and pollution, many view health care coverage as imperative. We will help you in understanding the steps and things to look out for while purchasing health insurance in Delhi through our blog post.
This shows the maximum amount your insurance company will pay for medical bills over a full year. A bigger insured sum is associated with more comprehensive coverage.
Analyze the insurance details thoroughly. While many plans cover hospital stays, surgeries, and prescription meds, others may also cover dental care, maternity care, and coverage for severe illnesses.
Your insurance company is connected to these medical facilities. Selecting a provider from the network helps streamline the claims process and perhaps save expenses.
Some claims, such as those involving pre-existing conditions, can be filed within this time frame.
This is the sum you pay the insurance supplier to keep up with the contract’s status. Comparing the premiums offered by various suppliers is essential.
Also Read: A Step-By-Step Guide To Navigating Health Insurance Claims
Health insurance plans come in various forms. Common types include:
Numerous factors, including age, the number of family members, existing medical conditions, and financial status, influence which plan is ideal.
Evaluate the premiums, hospital network, and claim settlement rates of various insurance companies along with their coverage.
Thoroughly understand the policy terms and conditions before purchase.
Prioritize insurers with a proven track record of claim settlements.
Consider supplementary covers like critical illness, personal accident, or maternity for enhanced protection.
As life evolves, so do insurance needs. Periodically review your policy to ensure it aligns with your changing requirements.
Quickly informing your insurance provider is essential if there is a medical emergency. A few guarantors give the choice of hospitalization without cash at clinics inside their organization. In cases without a credit only office, you might need to pay for costs forthright and afterward look for repayment from the insurance agency.
Also Read: 10 Sneaky Reasons Your Health Insurance Claim May Not Get Approved
Despite the fact that purchasing health insurance can be overwhelming, it is necessary for financial readiness. By completely surveying your needs, assessing various choices, and picking a dependable insurance agency, you can establish a strong health insurance foundation for yourself as well as your friends and family.
Please feel free to call us at 1800 266 9693 or email support@elephant.in with any questions. For excellent choices for vehicle insurance, visit Elephant.in!
*Terms and conditions apply. The information provided in this article is generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. You are recommended to obtain specific professional advice from before you take any/refrain from any action. Tax benefits are subject to changes in tax laws. Please contact your tax consultant for an exact calculation of your tax liabilities.| EL/BLOGS/24-25/16
Home is a dream which everyone sees with equivalent enthusiasm. And why not? It is a symbol of stability and testament to hard work that one does. However, no doubt it demands substantial financial commitment that has to be promised in terms of monetary supply. Seemingly, while owning a home is a rewarding experience, it’s equally important to protect this investment for your family. But how? Well, this is where term insurance steps in as a crucial financial safety net.
The insurance policy, designed to provide financial protection for a limited period of time, is generally called term insurance. Term insurance is not like ordinary life insurance, giving maturity benefits; it rather pays in bulk in case the policyholder unfortunately dies anytime during the policy term.
Also Read: How much term insurance cover do I need?
A term life cover helps protect the house you’ve built for your family through your hard work and effort, especially if something unfortunate happens and the main earner passes away. With term insurance, your loved ones can use the insurance money to pay off the remaining home loan. This ensures they can continue living in the same house without the burden of a significant debt.
Knowing your family will be okay money-wise even if you’re not around gives you peace of mind. Many people find this hard to achieve. If something unexpected happens, it helps your family with much-needed money.
In today’s busy world where inflation keeps hiking up, term insurance is a cheaper insurance plan to buy. This makes it a good choice for people who have financial responsibilities like home loans and want to protect what they own.
Figuring out the right amount of term insurance coverage is key. Here’s a basic guide:
Term insurance can also serve as a safeguard in case of any unforeseen circumstances affecting the home loan repayment. It offers an option to settle outstanding debts including home loan, provided the insured sum equals or exceeds the outstanding loan amount.
Think about adding a safety net to the insured sum to handle other money matters like daily costs, kids’ schooling, or other debts.
As your loan shrinks and money responsibilities shift, look over your term insurance coverage to make sure it fits your current needs.
Also Read:Factors to consider while buying Term Life Insurance
Choosing the Best Term Insurance plan requires considering a few factors:
The policy should at least be concurrent with the home loan, or a little beyond that to provide additional coverage.
Your outstanding house loan and other debt liabilities should be the basis for arriving at the sum insured.
Few policies will let you add extras, like serious illness cover or benefits in the event of death or disablement due to an accident. Consider whether you need these, based on your needs and your ability to pay for them.
Term insurance policy can be used as a collateral for a loan, allowing lender to claim the policy benefit in case of default.
Prices from different insurance companies should be compared to get value for the money.
This might seem like an expenditure additional to the one paid for buying insurance, but actually, it is an investment for your family’s future. The sense of security that one has by being prepared for the contingency offsets the initial cost incurred.
Want to know your options? Call now at 1800 266 9693 or mail at support@elephant.in. Want to know more about how to protect your vehicle? Log on to Elephant.in to know more about our extensive car insurance plans!
*Terms and conditions apply. The information provided in this article is generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. You are recommended to obtain specific professional advice from before you take any/refrain from any action. Tax benefits are subject to changes in tax laws. Please contact your tax consultant for an exact calculation of your tax liabilities.| EL/BLOGS/24-25/15
Health care expenses are spiraling day by day. In modern India, a health insurance plan has indeed become more of a need than a luxury. Not to forget that it actually is a financial shield, saving you from the burden of medical bills due to any mishap, for example, hospitalization or falling ill. But as new and established insurance companies alike pitch all manner of health insurance plans, at least one question seems to keep arising: Which is best, and how much is it going to cost me?
It doesn’t matter; we are there to help you. Various factors have a bearing on health insurance premiums in India, thus providing you with three sources to make an empowered decision while choosing a health insurance plan. You will be able to compare plans with purpose and choose the best health insurance policy that works well for you and your pocket.
A health insurance premium may simply be put in the same league with the price a person is to pay in regards to a linsurance company on a monthly or annual basis in order to receive coverage. Such coverage assures one of compensation up to a pre-determined limit whenever the individual falls ill or needs admission into a hospital for due reasons. Your premium is likely, in most cases, to dictate just how comprehensive your cover turns out to be.
The health insurance premium depends upon a various factors. Let us discuss some of the most important ones:
In general, premium rates for health insurance are charged on a lower rate for the younger age group in comparison to older people. This is because, with an increase in age, the risk for hospitalization and the associated medical cost increases.
If you enjoy the best premiums; then your pre-existing conditions, if any, may lead you into hefty premiums, as the company estimates probability.
Such habits as smoking or using tobacco will raise your premiums in a huge way. This is because such activities are dangerous to your health status.
This is the maximum amount that an insurance company is inclined to pay toward any treatment expenses. Quite normally, the higher the sum insured, the higher the premium, which in turn should ensure adequate coverage.
The premium will be less for a basic policy with restricted coverage as compared to comprehensive policies covering a wide scope of benefits, including pre- and post-hospitalization expenses or critical illness cover.
Geographical location may have an impact on your medical costs; it differs by city or region. So in case you reside in a metro city with higher healthcare costs, your premium may turn out a bit on the higher side.
A history of regular claims often makes insurance companies take it as an indicator to place you at an above-average risk, for which they might go ahead and increase the premium upon renewal.
The more competitive premium may be inviting, but here is a trade-off between cost and cover: one with a low enough premium in a basic plan will not give any significant coverage against serious medical conditions that might demand high-cost treatment.
Here are some extra pointers to keep your health insurance premium in check:
Conclusion
Once you understand what creates variations in your health insurance premiums, you will be better equipped to make informed decisions while choosing a plan. Keep in mind that the best health insurance plan is not about the affordability but the proper balance between cost and comprehensive coverage based on the needs of the buyer. There are so many ways to be smart about your health; one of these is to choose a health insurance plan that’s got your back—and your family’s—in case any medically unexpected situation arises.
*Terms and conditions apply. The information provided in this article is generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. You are recommended to obtain specific professional advice from before you take any/refrain from any action. Tax benefits are subject to changes in tax laws. Please contact your tax consultant for an exact calculation of your tax liabilities.| EL/BLOGS/24-25/14