Benefits of Individual Health Insurance Plans
Here are some key benefits of buying individual health insurance plans.
Extensive coverage
Individual medical insurance offers comprehensive financial coverage that helps one cope with sudden expenses due to medical emergencies. Get coverage for pre-and post-hospitalisation expenses, daycare treatments, and in-patient hospitalisation charges. Also covers organ donor expenses, treatment for mental illness, AYUSH therapy costs and more.
Cashless treatment option
One can opt for a cashless claim during any medical emergency that requires urgent hospitalisation. The insurance company will settle the bill directly with the hospital. However, the hospital should be on the list of the network hospitals of the insurer.
Recovery benefit
There are many individual health plans that offer financial assistance to the insured individual’s family during treatment. In case, the individual stays admitted to the hospital for more than 10 days, the family is eligible for compensation.
Tax benefits
As per Section 80D of the Income Tax Act, you can claim a tax deduction for the total premium paid for individual health insurance plans. Health insurance tax benefit is applicable for a total deduction limit of up to Rs. 25,000.
Read more: Family health insurance plans in India
What are the types of Individual Health Insurance claims?
Individual health insurance claims are generally categorised into two types: cashless claims and reimbursement claims. Both processes help policyholders manage medical expenses, offering flexibility in settling hospital bills based on the treatment received.
1. Cashless claims
- Available at network hospitals partnered with the insurance provider.
- No upfront payment is required; the insurer directly settles the bill with the hospital.
- Requires pre-authorisation from the insurance company, usually before hospitalisation.
- Ideal for planned treatments or emergencies at designated healthcare facilities.
2. Reimbursement claims
- Applicable when treatment is received at non-network hospitals.
- Policyholders pay the medical bills upfront and then file for reimbursement from the insurer.
- Requires submitting necessary documents, such as hospital bills, discharge summary, and prescriptions.
- The insurer evaluates and reimburses the eligible amount as per the policy terms.
What is covered under individual health insurance plans?
In-patient hospitalisation
Covers treatment costs during in-patient hospitalisation. This includes room rent, medication, doctor fees, tests, etc.
Pre-and post-hospitalisation
Covers hospitalisation charges for up to 30 days before and 90 days after hospitalisation. The duration varies for different insurers.
Daycare treatment
Get coverage for daycare treatment charges within the valid policy term. The individual health insurance includes the number and types of daycare treatments covered in the policy document.
Organ donor expenses
Covers expenses incurred to harvest a major organ from a donor for an organ transplant procedure.
Domiciliary hospitalisation
Health insurance plans provide coverage for domiciliary hospitalisation. You get coverage for treatment taken at home under the supervision of a medical practitioner. Usually, doctors prescribe home treatment if the patient’s condition does not permit to go to the hospital or due to the unavailability of hospital bed.
Also, read: Parents Health Insurance
What is not covered under individual health insurance plans?
Here are some of the key exclusions under the individual health insurance plans.
1. Cosmetic surgeries
Cosmetic or aesthetic procedures like facelifts, liposuction, and Botox treatments are generally not covered, as they are not considered medically necessary. However, reconstructive surgeries following accidents or trauma may be covered under certain conditions.
2. Dental treatment
Routine dental treatments, such as cleanings, fillings, and orthodontic procedures, are usually excluded from coverage. Only specific dental treatments required due to accidents or injuries may be included in some policies.
3. Self-inflicted injuries/suicide
Medical expenses resulting from self-harm or suicide attempts are typically not covered under individual health insurance plans. This exclusion is intended to prevent intentional misuse of insurance benefits.
4. Treatment for any ailment due to drug abuse
Health issues arising from substance abuse, such as drug or alcohol addiction, are not covered. Treatments for illnesses or injuries directly caused by drug abuse are also excluded from coverage.
5. Deaddiction treatment
Costs related to rehabilitation or de-addiction programs for substance abuse are excluded. This includes both inpatient and outpatient services aimed at overcoming addiction to drugs, alcohol, or other substances.
6. HIV/AIDS
Most individual health insurance policies do not cover the treatment of HIV/AIDS or related conditions. Some newer policies may offer partial coverage for HIV/AIDS treatments, but this remains an exclusion in many traditional plans.
7. Injuries or illness due to war
Injuries or health conditions arising from participation in war, acts of terrorism, or civil disturbances are not covered. This exclusion also applies to injuries sustained during participation in military activities or riots.
How does an Individual Health Insurance policy work?
An individual health insurance policy works by providing financial coverage for medical expenses incurred by the policyholder. After purchasing the policy, you pay regular premiums to maintain coverage. In the event of hospitalisation or medical treatment, you can either opt for cashless services at network hospitals or file for reimbursement if treated at non-network facilities. Individual health insurance plans cover a range of healthcare costs, such as hospitalisation, surgeries, and medication, depending on the policy terms. These plans ensure you are financially protected against unexpected medical expenses, offering peace of mind and access to quality healthcare.
Additional benefits of Individual Health Insurance
1. Wellness benefits
Many individual health insurance plans offer wellness programs that encourage healthy lifestyles, such as fitness memberships, nutrition counseling, or rewards for maintaining good health metrics.
2. Portability benefits
With the portability feature, policyholders can switch between insurers without losing their accumulated benefits, like waiting periods or No Claim Bonuses, ensuring uninterrupted coverage.
3. Discounts on policy
Insurers often provide discounts for longer policy tenures, adding family members, or maintaining a claim-free record, reducing the overall premium cost.
4. Preventive health check-ups
Most individual health insurance plans cover regular preventive health check-ups, helping detect potential health issues early, ensuring better long-term health management.
Eligibility criteria for individual health insurance
Given below are the common criteria for individual health insurance:
1. Age:
Generally, individual health insurance policies are available for people aged 18-65. However, some insurers extend coverage to older individuals, offering senior-specific plans with tailored benefits.
2. Health status:
Pre-existing conditions are often subject to waiting periods or exclusions. Many insurers impose a waiting period of 2-4 years before covering chronic illnesses or conditions diagnosed prior to purchasing the policy.
3. Residency:
To qualify for an individual health insurance plan, one must be a resident of the country where the policy is being offered, ensuring access to local healthcare facilities.
4. Medical history:
Some insurers may require a medical check-up or submission of a health declaration to assess the risk level and determine premium rates or exclusions based on existing medical conditions.
What makes health insurance plans for individuals necessary?
Considering the increasing healthcare expenses, and changing lifestyle, individual health insurance becomes a crucial investment that secures you during medical emergencies. Health insurance policies for individuals ensure you can access high-quality medical care when required.
Here is why health insurance plans for individuals are necessary.
Skyrocketing medical inflation
The cost of medical treatment has been on a drastic rise over the last few years. Individual health insurance lets you stay financially secure against any sudden expense caused due to medical emergencies.
Lifestyle-related diseases on the rise
Increasing lifestyle-related diseases due to stress, pollution, device addiction, and unhealthy eating habits make personal health insurance a must.
Savings
One of the most significant reasons to buy an health insurance plans for individuals is that it helps keep one’s savings intact in times of medical emergencies. There are no out-of-pocket expenses as the policy offers the necessary financial coverage.
Secure your family
Having an individual health insurance plan for family members will ensure complete security for them. Ageing parents or growing children are most vulnerable to illnesses. A medical insurance plan will ensure they access the best quality healthcare services without worrying about funds.
How to claim your individual health plan
At the time of an emergency, you can claim your individual medical insurance by following the set of steps given below:
Step 1: Fill up the pre-authorisation form at the network hospital to claim cashless approval at the time of hospitalisation.
Step 2: The insurer will approve the request and notify the hospital.
Step 3: Following which the hospital procedures will begin.
Step 4: The insurer will settle the bills directly with the network hospital at the time of discharge.
A similar set of steps can be followed to claim other individual health insurance plans.
Also, read: Maternity Health Insurance
Documents required for Individual Health Insurance
- Identity proof: Government-issued ID such as a passport, driver’s license, or Aadhaar card to verify personal details.
- Address proof: Utility bills, rental agreement, or bank statements to confirm your current residential address.
- Medical history: Records or declarations of any existing medical conditions or recent health check-ups.
- Age proof: Birth certificate or passport to confirm the applicant's age.
- Income proof: Salary slips, tax returns, or bank statements to assess affordability and eligibility.
Is cashless treatment available under Individual Health Insurance Policy?
Yes, cashless treatment is often available under individual health insurance policies. This means you can receive medical care at network hospitals without paying upfront, as the insurance provider settles the bill directly with the hospital. It simplifies the process and reduces financial strain during emergencies, provided you obtain pre-authorisation from the insurer.
Are there any waiting periods under Individual Health Insurance plans?
Yes, individual health insurance plans typically include waiting periods. These include an initial waiting period for coverage to start, often 30 days, and specific waiting periods for pre-existing conditions, usually 2-4 years. During these waiting periods, claims related to pre-existing conditions or certain treatments may not be covered. It's important to review the policy terms to understand these periods and their impact on coverage.
Does the individual health insurance policy offer cashless treatment?
Individual health insurance plans generally offer cashless treatment. Given below are a few key aspects related to the same:
- Individual health insurance policies often offer cashless treatment options, providing policyholders with the convenience of availing medical services without upfront payment.
- These individual medical insurance plans typically involve tie-ups with a network of hospitals where policyholders can avail cashless treatment.
- Cashless treatment under individual health plans eliminates the need for reimbursement hassles, offering peace of mind during medical emergencies.
Determining the ideal coverage for individual health insurance: What's right for you?
- Assess your healthcare needs and budget to determine the ideal coverage for individual health insurance.
- Consider factors like age, pre-existing conditions, and lifestyle habits when choosing individual medical insurance plans.
- Evaluate coverage options offered by various insurers, including hospitalisation, outpatient care, and preventive services.
- Look for additional benefits like maternity coverage, wellness programs, and telemedicine services in individual health plans.
- Compare premiums, deductibles, and co-payments to find the most suitable individual medical insurance plan for your needs.
How to buy an individual health insurance policy online?
You can easily buy an individual health insurance policy online. Given below are the key steps involved in the process:
1. Research plans:
Compare various individual health insurance policies online to identify the best options. Look at coverage details, premiums, exclusions, and benefits to find a plan that matches your specific health needs and financial situation.
2. Choose coverage:
Select the coverage amount and benefits that best address your health requirements. Consider factors like sum insured, coverage for pre-existing conditions, and additional benefits such as maternity or critical illness coverage.
3. Fill application:
Complete the online application form by providing accurate personal and medical information. This includes details about your age, health status, and any pre-existing conditions to ensure proper evaluation and coverage.
4. Submit documents:
Upload the necessary documents, including identity proof, address proof, and medical records. Ensure all documents are clear and up-to-date to facilitate smooth processing and approval of your health insurance application.
5. Make payment:
Pay the insurance premium through secure online payment gateways. Choose a payment method that is convenient for you, such as credit/debit cards or net banking, to complete the purchase of your health insurance plan.
6. Receive policy:
After approval, you will receive your policy document via email. Review the document carefully to confirm the details, coverage, and terms, ensuring everything aligns with your selected plan.
How much coverage under individual health insurance should you have?
Usually, it is advised that you must have 50% of your annual income value as health insurance coverage. This means if you earn Rs. 5 lakh per annum, get health insurance coverage up to Rs. 2.5 lakh. However, considering the medical inflation every year, you must have sufficient health coverage to stay adequately covered during medical emergencies. You get coverage up to Rs. 2 crore on health insurance plans for individuals. The premium for individual health insurance policies depends on the coverage chosen. Hence, buy an individual health insurance that fits your budget and requirement.
Read more: Buy critical illness insurance policy online.
What is the difference between Group and Individual Health Insurance?
Aspect
|
Group Health Insurance
|
Individual Health Insurance
|
Coverage
|
Offered through employers or organisations, covering multiple people
|
Tailored to the individual, with customised coverage and benefits
|
Premiums
|
Typically lower due to group rates
|
Usually higher, as it's based on individual risk factors and health status
|
Flexibility
|
Limited options for customisation
|
Highly customisable based on personal health needs and preferences
|
Portability
|
Coverage often ends with employment or organisation membership
|
Portable; coverage continues regardless of job changes or location
|
Eligibility
|
Generally guaranteed for all members of the group
|
Subject to underwriting and individual health assessments
|
Also, read: Group Health Insurance Policy
Things to keep in mind when you buy individual health insurance
Here are some key pointers to keep in mind when buying individual health insurance.
Coverage
It is essential to assess the coverage that the health plan offers. Make sure you get comprehensive coverage to meet all your needs comfortably.
Affordability
If you find the premium high for your budget, you have the option of choosing to co-pay the claim. This means that you will pay a share of your final bill yourself. With the co-pay option, you can expect to pay lower premiums.
Network hospitals
It is wise to check if the insurer has a vast chain of network hospitals. One can get a cashless claim settlement facility at any of these hospitals.
Waiting period
The insurance benefits will not come into effect until the waiting period is over. One should look for individual insurance plans that have lower waiting periods for critical illness.
Sub-limit
Sub-limit is a cap placed on the claim amount for hospital room rent, post-hospitalisation charges, and others. It is wise to choose a plan having a lower sub-limit.
Who should buy Individual Health Insurance?
- Self-employed individuals: Those who do not have access to employer-sponsored health coverage should consider individual plans to ensure comprehensive medical protection.
- Freelancers and contract workers: People with non-permanent employment need individual insurance to secure health coverage.
- Individuals with specific health needs: Those requiring tailored coverage for pre-existing conditions or specific treatments.
- High-income earners: To benefit from customised plans and additional coverage options not available in group policies.