Best Health Insurance Plans in India

Find the best health insurance plan - Key factors, benefits and coverage options explained.
Get Quote
Check our health insurance plans
Get Quote
3 min
12-November-2024

Looking for the right health insurance can be a confusing and a tedious process. Since multiple insurance providers offer a variety of policies, picking the best plan becomes a challenge. You need to consider multiple options, including riders, coverage, exclusions, network hospitals, and more.

You may choose to either buy an individual health insurance policy or a family health insurance plan based on your requirement. Know in detail the offerings on health policies and how it benefits you to choose the best health insurance in India.

Why should I buy the best health insurance policy?

Purchasing the best health insurance policy in India is essential to safeguard your well-being and finances. It offers comprehensive coverage for medical expenses, including hospitalization, surgeries, medications, and diagnostic tests. With the best health insurance policy, you gain access to a wide network of hospitals and healthcare providers, ensuring timely and quality medical care. It provides financial security during emergencies, protects savings from healthcare costs, and offers peace of mind knowing that you and your loved ones are adequately covered against health-related uncertainties. Investing in the best health insurance policy is a prudent decision for securing your future health and financial stability.

List of best health insurance plans in India for 2024

Finding good insurance plans can get tricky with so many options available in the market. Visit Bajaj Finance Insurance Mall to get a quick view of the best health insurance plans in India, offered by leading insurers:

Best health insurance plans in India - 2024

Entry age (Min-Max)

Description

Sum insured

Number of network hospitals

Aditya Birla Group Activ Health Plan

18 years and above

  • Covers medical expenses for chronic illnesses like asthma, blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes.

  • Covers treatment costs that occur 30 days before or 90 days after hospitalisation.

  • Covers 527 daycare treatments that require less than 24 hours of hospitalisation.

Up to Rs. 10 lakh

10,000+

Niva Bupa Health Plus

18-60 years

  • Covers medical expenses incurred up to 30 days before hospitalisation and 60 days after discharge.

  • Covers surgery-related expenses such as nursing, ICU, doctor’s fees, and operation theatre charges.

  • Covers 536 daycare procedures up to the sum insured.

Up to Rs. 5 lakh

8,500+

Bajaj Allianz Health Guard Insurance Plan

 

Age (adults): 18-65 years

 

Age (dependent children): 91 days to 25 years

  • Covers medical expenses for pre-hospitalisation for up to 60 days and post-hospitalisation for up to 90 days.

  • Get Rs. 5,000 allowances if hospitalised continuously for more than 10 days.

  • Covers 536 daycare procedures except for the outpatient department.

Up to Rs. 50 lakh

7000+

ManipalCigna Pro-Health Group

Age (adults): 18-65 years

 

Age (dependent children): 91 days to 25 years

  • Get 100% coverage for any medical expenses.

  • Covers expenses of treatment taken at home.

  • Covers 500+ daycare procedures that take less than 24 hours of hospitalisation.

Up to Rs. 5 lakh

6,500+


How to select the best health insurance policy to buy?

1. Choose an adequate sum insured amount:

Selecting an appropriate sum insured amount is crucial for ensuring adequate financial coverage during medical emergencies. Assess your healthcare needs and potential expenses, considering factors like age, health conditions, and family size, to determine the right sum.

2. Research and compare plans:

Take the time to research various health insurance plans available in the market. Comparing features, coverage options, premiums, and additional benefits will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your healthcare needs and budget.

3. Choose the right coverage type:

Consider the type of coverage that best suits your requirements, such as individual, family floater, or critical illness plans. Each type offers different benefits and premiums, so choose one that addresses your specific health needs and financial goals.

4. Check the pre-existing disease waiting period:

Be aware of the waiting period for pre-existing diseases in the chosen policy. Different insurers have varying waiting periods, which can affect coverage availability. Opt for a policy with a shorter waiting period if you have existing health conditions.

5. Pick an insurer with a high claim settlement ratio:

Choosing an insurer with a high claim settlement ratio is vital for ensuring reliable claim processing. A higher ratio indicates the insurer's efficiency in settling claims, providing peace of mind during health emergencies.

6. Smooth claim settlement process:

Look for health insurance policies that offer a smooth claim settlement process, including clear documentation and prompt responses. A hassle-free experience during claims can significantly reduce stress during challenging times when you need immediate medical assistance.

7. Don't forget to compare premium:

When selecting a health insurance policy, comparing premiums across different plans is essential. Analyze the premium rates in relation to the coverage and benefits offered to ensure you get value for your money without compromising essential features.

8. Cashless hospitalisation:

Opt for policies that provide cashless hospitalization, allowing you to receive treatment without upfront payments at network hospitals. This feature simplifies the claim process and provides convenience during emergencies, making it an important factor when choosing a health insurance plan.

9. Check the reviews and customer service:

Investigate customer reviews and ratings for the insurer's services. Good customer service ensures timely assistance and support during claims. A company with positive feedback regarding responsiveness and service quality will enhance your overall insurance experience.

10. Read the policy exclusions:

Thoroughly read the policy exclusions before purchasing a health insurance plan. Understanding what is not covered can prevent unpleasant surprises during claims. Ensure the policy aligns with your healthcare needs and that you are aware of any limitations.

Key benefits offered by the best health insurance plans in India

Look for the below benefits to choose the best health insurance in India:

Cashless hospitalisation :

Most health insurance plans offer cashless hospitalisation. Insurance companies tie up with several hospitals to create a network to offer quality cashless mediclaim policy. Get your treatment at any of the network hospitals without worrying about the availability of funds. Here, the insurers directly settle the claims with the hospitals.

Comprehensive coverage :

The best health insurance policy offers coverage for a range of healthcare expenses. This includes in-patient and pre- and post-hospitalisation expenses. Some insurance policies also provide coverage for daycare treatments, ambulance expenses, and domiciliary treatment.

Lower premiums:

The best health insurance plans in India often feature lower premiums, making them more affordable for individuals and families. Competitive pricing ensures that essential coverage is accessible, allowing policyholders to secure comprehensive health protection without straining their budgets.

Tax benefits :

Avail tax benefits under relevant sections of the Income Tax Act, 1961 for paying premiums towards the health insurance policy.

Cashless treatment:

One of the key benefits of the best health insurance plans in India is cashless treatment. This feature allows policyholders to receive medical services at network hospitals without making upfront payments, streamlining the claims process during emergencies.

No Claim Bonus or cumulative bonus :

You gain a cumulative bonus for having claim-free policy years. You can benefit from this bonus by increasing your sum insured when renewing the health policy.

Wellness benefits:

The best health policy in India often includes wellness benefits, such as preventive health check-ups, fitness programs, and discounts on health-related services. These incentives promote overall well-being and encourage policyholders to maintain a healthier lifestyle, enhancing long-term health.

Daily allowance :

Many health insurance policies offer daily cash benefit. This helps you take care of the miscellaneous expenses when hospitalised. You may get up to Rs. 1,000 daily, depending on the health insurance chosen.

Critical illness coverage :

Critical illness cover offers coverage for treatments of life-threatening diseases. Health insurance policies also offer critical illness cover as an add-on benefit. Some also include it in their key benefits. You get coverage for cancer, stroke, heart diseases, kidney failure and more. Check the list of the critical illnesses covered under the health insurance policy when buying one.

Extra benefits :

Other common benefits offered by health insurance policies:

  • Free annual health check-ups
  • Online doctor consultations
  • Consultations with nutritionists
  • Discounts on lab tests

Pro Tip

Avail hospitalisation and treatment benefits with health insurance plans starting at just Rs. 15*/day.

health-insurance-banner

Best health insurance policies in India

Check out the details of the best health insurance plans offered through Bajaj Finance:

Aditya Birla Group Activ Health Plan

  • This Aditya Birla health insurance policy provides coverage for treatment against chronic illnesses.

  • It comes in options with and without co-pay, providing sum insured of up to Rs. 10 lakh.

  • You can claim medical expenses incurred 30 days before hospitalisation and 60 days after hospitalisation.

  • Organ donor expenses, road ambulance, and room rent charges are a few other benefits covered under this plan.

Niva Bupa Health Plus Plan

  • This comprehensive healthcare plan provides coverage against hospitalisation expenses, offering sum insured of up to Rs. 5 lakh.

  • You can get coverage for pre- and post-hospitalisation expenses.

  • Domiciliary treatments and emergency ground ambulance are among the other benefits that the plan offers.

  • No medical underwriting is required for this plan.

  • Get coverage of up to the sum insured in case of organ transplant.

Bajaj Allianz Health Guard Insurance Plan

  • It takes care of the medical treatment expenses incurred during hospitalisation resulting from serious illness or accident.

  • The policy offers a daily cash benefit of Rs. 500 per day. This is capped at 10 days per policy year, to cover reasonable accommodation expenses for one parent or legal guardian. This benefit applies when staying with a minor insured person (under the age of 12), subject to the condition that the hospitalisation claim is approved under the inpatient hospitalisation treatment cover.

  • Medical expenses of pre-natal and post-natal hospitalisation per delivery.

Manipal Cigna Pro Health Group Plan

  • This policy provides coverage for hospitalisation exceeding 24 hours, encompassing expenses such as room rent, ICU charges, nursing, doctor, and surgeon fees.
  • The plan extends coverage to include oxygen, operation theatre costs, and other associated medical expenses.
  • Covers treatments such as ayurveda, unani, sidha, homoeopathy. Also, yoga, and naturopathy.
  • Domiciliary treatment, road ambulance cover, daycare treatment, and organ donor expenses are a few other benefits that you can claim with this plan.

Also, read: Parents health insurance

Things to consider before choosing the best health insurance plans in India

Tips to choose the best health insurance plan that covers all your medical needs:

• Coverage

You should make sure that the plan covers hospitalisation, surgeries, diagnostic tests, and pre- and post-hospitalisation expenses.

• Premiums

Check the premium of the plan and ensure that the amount is worth the coverage offered on the plan.

• Waiting period

Some health insurance plans have a waiting period before offering coverage for certain health conditions and treatments. Check the applicable waiting period in health insurance plan before choosing, so you can claim for the benefits hassle-free.

• Exclusions

Every health policy includes a set of exclusions that the insurer does not cover. Check the terms and conditions to know the list of exclusions in the policy. The common exclusions include treatments for drug abuse or addictions, or self-inflicted injuries.

• Claim settlement ratio

The claim settlement ratio defines the insurance company’s efficiency to settle the claims. A high claim settlement ratio in health insurance indicates a smooth and hassle-free claims process.

• Add-ons

Look for additional benefits you can get on the comprehensive health insurance policy. You get add-on covers like maternity cover, critical illness cover, hospital cash cover and more.

• Sum reinstatement benefit

Most health policies offer the benefit of restoring 100% of the sum insured if it gets exhausted during the policy term. This helps you to continue staying covered under the plan till the policy expires.

• Waiting Period for pre-existing disease

Check the waiting period mentioned in the plan in case of pre-existing disease coverage. Many policies have a waiting period during which pre-existing conditions are not covered. Opt for a policy with a shorter waiting period if you have pre-existing health issues.

• Maximum renewal age

You must choose a policy that offers coverage for as long as possible, ideally without an upper age limit.

• Check exclusions

All insurance policies have a set of things which are not covered under the policy. While going through the policy wording for a health insurance, you must go through the list of exclusions, to ensure none of your requirements are excluded from the policy.

• Cashless hospitalisation

Look for policies that offer cashless hospitalisation, as this can ease the financial burden during medical emergencies.

Also, know how to claim health insurance.

What is the income tax deduction on best medical insurance in India?

In India, individuals can claim income tax deductions under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act for premiums paid towards health insurance. The deduction limits vary based on the age of the insured and whether they are paying for themselves, their family, or their parents. Choosing the best health insurance plan in India involves considering coverage, network hospitals, claim settlement ratio, and customer service.

Top health insurance companies in India

Here are the top health insurance companies in India that offer comprehensive health coverage.

• Aditya Birla Health Insurance:

The company offers a diverse range of insurance policies catering to everyone's requirements. Aditya Birla Health Insurance offers a broad range of health insurance plans from individual to family floater, and super top-up plans. These plans offer features like multiple hospitalisation options, coverage for non-allopathic treatments, and flexible premium payment options.

• Bajaj Allianz General Insurance:

Bajaj Allianz General is a leading health insurance company known for its comprehensive coverage, unique features, and coherent approach to providing health care solutions. It introduces innovative policies such as Health Care Supreme, which covers alternative treatments and diagnostic testing, and the Health Guard Policy, covering critical illnesses and pre-existing conditions without a waiting period.

• Bajaj Finserv Health Insurance:

Combines affordability with quality to provide extensive health insurance policies. The plans include features like cashless treatment, lifelong renewal options, and coverage for alternative treatments, such as Ayurveda and Yoga.

• Care Health Insurance (previously Religare):

A top player in the health insurance market known for providing reasonable and comprehensive policies. You get individual health coverage, family floater health insurance policies, and coverages for pre-existing conditions, chronic illnesses, and hassle-free claim settlement procedures.

• DocOnline Health:

It is a new-age health insurance company that combines the benefits of online consultations with doctors and wellness programs along with traditional coverage. Ideal for people who need quick access to medical care, the company offers medical tests, personalised wellness programs, and online consultations with doctors and specialists.

• Niva Bupa Health Insurance:

It is one of the top health insurance providers in India, offering innovative health solutions to meet individuals' unique needs, including coverage for Ayurveda, homeopathy, and more traditional treatments.

• ManipalCigna Health Insurance:

A collaboration between the Manipal Group and Cigna, a global health service company, the firm offers comprehensive health insurance plans with features like cashless hospitalisation, lifetime renewals, and pre-existing disease coverage. ManipalCigna also offers various wellness programs designed to keep policyholders healthy.

You can buy some of the best health insurance plans offered by the above health insurance companies from Bajaj Finance Insurance Mall. You can choose from a range of health plans including comprehensive health insurance and small-ticket insurance plans as per your requirements and budget.

Read more: Health Insurance Plans for Family

How can I customise health insurance plans in India?

You can follow the steps below to customise your health insurance plan in India:

  • Choose a reputable health insurance provider in India.
  • Assess your healthcare needs and budget.
  • Select a plan type, such as individual, family floater or senior citizen plan.
  • Evaluate the coverage and benefits offered.
  • Customise the policy by adding add-ons or riders for extra coverage.
  • Consider the network of hospitals and healthcare providers covered by the policy.
  • Review the policy documents and terms and conditions carefully before purchasing.
  • Regularly review and update your health insurance plan to ensure it meets your changing needs and circumstances.

Frequently asked questions

Which is the best health insurance policy in India?

You must buy a health insurance policy that offers comprehensive coverage at an affordable premium. Look for a health policy that caters to all your medical needs and gives you complete financial security.

How do I choose the top health insurance company in India?

You need to consider a few important factors about the health insurance company before selecting a policy. Here’s what need you to know about the health insurance company.
1. The number of network hospitals the insurer has, so you can avail of cashless facility in an emergency.
2. Choose a health insurer with a good claim settlement ratio. A high claim settlement ratio indicates the insurer’s efficiency to settle the claims.
3. Along with the claim settlement ratio, look at the claim settlement process. Look for insurers who offer an easy and convenient claim settlement process. This will help you get your claims settled hassle-free while you focus on your health and recovery.
4. Look for the various health insurance policies that the insurer offers. Also, consider the extent of coverage offered. Ensure that the coverage offered is worth the premium you pay.

What are the exclusions under health insurance plans?

The common exclusions under the health insurance plans are as follows:
1. Treatment for any illness due to consumption of alcohol or drugs
2. Cosmetic surgeries or dental treatments
3. Treatments for injuries caused in war, terrorist act, self-inflicted, or attempt at suicide

The terms and conditions under health insurance policies may differ for every insurer. Therefore, read the list of exclusions while choosing the health insurance policy.

What does a health insurance premium mean?

The premium of health insurance means the amount that you need to pay to buy the policy. The premium may differ for every health insurance policy. The premium depends on the coverage chosen, benefits offered, prospect’s age and medical history. You can pay the premium in instalments, depending on your insurer’s offerings.

What are some major factors to check while buying the best health insurance?

You must look for the below factors when buying a health insurance plan.
1. The extent of coverages offered on the policy.
2. Check if the policy offers pre-and post-hospitalisation expenses along with hospitalisation expenses.
3. Check if the policy covers other medical-related expenses like diagnosis tests, room rent, ICU charges, medicines, doctor’s fees and more.
4. Check if you can claim traditional as well as modern treatments. Most health insurers now cover AYUSH treatments, robotic surgeries, oral chemotherapy, and more.
5. Check the number of insurers’ network hospitals, so you can avail of cashless treatment when needed.

Also, check the waiting period applied to avail the benefits of the health insurance policy.

Which health insurance policy is best in India 2024?

Any health insurance that provides comprehensive coverage for medical expenses is best for you. Consider health insurance with coverages for expenses like hospitalisation, pre-and post-hospitalisation, treatments taken, daycare procedures and more. Also, look for health insurance policies that offer additional coverages like maternity expenses, critical illness expenses, etc.

Which is the best cashless health insurance policy in India?

Most health insurance policies in India offer cashless facility. Look for a cashless health insurance policy that has larger network of hospitals in India to benefit from the cashless services.

Which are the top five health insurance companies in India?

The following health insurance companies offer comprehensive health insurance plans at affordable premiums:

1. Aditya Birla Health Insurance
2. Bajaj Allianz General Insurance
3. Niva Bupa Health Insurance
4. ManipalCigna Health Insurance

While the above health insurance companies offer extensive coverage for medical expenses, you can also buy small-ticket insurance from these providers. Besides these, you can also buy Pocket Insurance and Pocket Subscriptions on Bajaj Finance Insurance Mall from the below leading health insurance providers.

1. DocOnline Health
2. Care Health Insurance
3. Bajaj Finserv Health Insurance

Is it worth it to buy health insurance in India?

Yes, it is worth buying health insurance in India as it provides financial protection during medical emergencies, saves tax under Section 80D, and assures access to quality medical care. With increasing medical costs, health insurance can provide the necessary coverage and peace of mind in such situations.

Why do health insurance companies in India primarily cover hospitalisation expenses?

Health insurance companies in India primarily cover hospitalisation expenses because hospitalisation is usually the most expensive healthcare service required by policyholders. Additionally, it is easier for insurance companies to evaluate the costs of hospitalisation than outpatient services.

Is 2 lakh health insurance enough?

Whether 2 lakh health insurance is enough depends on various factors like your age, medical history, lifestyle, and the healthcare costs in your area. For some, it may provide sufficient coverage, while others might require higher coverage limits to meet potential medical expenses. It's essential to assess your individual needs and consider factors like inflation and potential medical emergencies when determining the adequacy of your health insurance coverage. Consulting with a financial advisor or insurance agent can help you make an informed decision tailored to your specific circumstances.

Which health insurance is best in India for claim settlement?

Determining the best health insurance in India for claim settlement involves considering factors like claim settlement ratio, customer reviews, network hospitals, and overall service quality. Researching the top companies and comparing their offerings can help you select the most suitable option for your needs.

What is the best health insurance for family?

The best health insurance for families typically offers comprehensive coverage, including maternity benefits, pediatric care, and pre-existing disease coverage. Plans with a high sum insured, cashless hospitalisation, and additional wellness benefits ensure adequate protection for all family members.

What are the factors that define the best health insurance plan?

The best health insurance plan is defined by factors such as coverage options, premium affordability, claim settlement ratio, network hospitals, waiting periods, additional benefits, and customer service quality. A thorough assessment of these factors helps in making an informed choice.

Which company is best in health insurance?

The "best" health insurance company depends on your specific needs and budget. Some of the top-rated companies in India include HDFC Ergo, Niva Bupa, Aditya Birla Health Insurance, ManipalCigna, and Star Health & Allied Insurance. Consider factors like claim settlement ratio, network hospitals, policy coverage, and customer service when choosing a company.

Show More Show Less

Related videos

Bajaj Finserv app for all your financial needs and goals

Trusted by 50 million+ customers in India, Bajaj Finserv App is a one-stop solution for all your financial needs and goals.

You can use the Bajaj Finserv App to:

  • Apply for loans online, such as Instant Personal Loan, Home Loan, Business Loan, Gold Loan, and more.
  • Invest in fixed deposits and mutual funds on the app.
  • Choose from multiple insurance for your health, motor and even pocket insurance, from various insurance providers.
  • Pay and manage your bills and recharges using the BBPS platform. Use Bajaj Pay and Bajaj Wallet for quick and simple money transfers and transactions.
  • Apply for Insta EMI Card and get a pre-approved limit on the app. Explore over 1 million products on the app that can be purchased from a partner store on Easy EMIs.
  • Shop from over 100+ brand partners that offer a diverse range of products and services.
  • Use specialised tools like EMI calculators, SIP Calculators
  • Check your credit score, download loan statements and even get quick customer support—all on the app.

Download the Bajaj Finserv App today and experience the convenience of managing your finances on one app.

Do more with the Bajaj Finserv App!

UPI, Wallet, Loans, Investments, Cards, Shopping and more

GET THE APP

Disclaimer

Bajaj Finance Ltd. (BFL) is merely a distributor of third party products from Assistance Services providers such as CPP Assistance Services Pvt Ltd, Bajaj Finserv Health Ltd.(BFHL), AWP Assistance India Pvt. Ltd. (Allianz), Doc Online Health India Pvt Ltd. etc. Issuance of the product is at sole discretion of Assistance Company or Services provider . The product and services or benefits assured under the product shall be governed by respective partner’s product T&C’s and BFL does NOT hold any responsibility for the issuance, quality, serviceability, maintenance and any claims post sale. Your purchase of an assistance product is purely on a voluntary basis after your exercise of an independent due diligence on the suitability, viability of any product. For more details on terms and conditions, inclusions and exclusions please read the product sales brochure carefully before purchase or subscription. All product information such as membership fees, benefits, exclusions, value added services, etc. are authentic and solely based on the information received from the respective value added service provider or Assistance company.

Note – While we have made all efforts and taken utmost care in gathering precise information about the products, features, benefits, etc. However, BFL cannot be held liable for any direct or indirect damage/loss. We request our customers to conduct their research about these products and refer to the respective product’s sales brochures before concluding their sale.