Health insurance in Kerala has become an essential safeguard for residents, offering comprehensive coverage against rising medical costs. With a well-established healthcare system, the state provides a variety of insurance plans tailored to meet diverse needs, from basic coverage to specialized policies. These plans not only ensure access to quality healthcare but also provide financial protection during emergencies. As awareness grows, more individuals and families in Kerala are investing in health insurance to secure their well-being and peace of mind. Also, explore the various health insurance plans offered through Bajaj Finance and the steps to buy these policies without any paperwork.
Health statistics of Kerala
Kerala boasts some of India's best health statistics, reflecting its strong healthcare infrastructure. The state has the highest life expectancy in the country, with an average of 75 years, and a low infant mortality rate. Kerala also excels in maternal health. High literacy rates and widespread healthcare access contribute to low disease prevalence and a higher overall standard of health compared to other Indian states.
Here are key health statistics for Kerala
- Kerala boasts one of the highest life expectancies in India.
- The state's infant mortality rate is the lowest in the country, reflecting excellent healthcare for new borns.
- Kerala ranks first in human development indices, including health.
- It leads the country in literacy and awareness about health insurance.
- A high percentage of the population is insured, with many opting for comprehensive health plans.
Bajaj Finance along with reputed insurance companies offers multiple affordable health insurance plans that cater to individual requirements.
Why do you need health insurance in Kerala?
The increasing costs of medical treatments and the growing prevalence of diseases underscore the importance of health insurance in Kerala. Health insurance acts as a financial safety net during medical emergencies, allowing you to access top-quality care without the burden of expenses. It covers hospitalisation, pre-and post-hospitalisation costs, and even provides cashless treatment at network hospitals, among other advantages. In today’s digital age, purchasing health insurance is straightforward; you can easily compare and buy the most suitable plans online through providers like Bajaj Finance.
1. Rising out-of-pocket healthcare costs
Healthcare expenses in Kerala have significantly increased due to rising hospital charges, diagnostic tests, and specialist consultations. Many residents face high out-of-pocket costs for treatments, especially during emergencies. Health insurance helps cover these expenses, reducing financial burdens and ensuring access to quality care.
2. Growing prevalence of waterborne diseases
Kerala experiences frequent outbreaks of waterborne diseases like cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea, particularly during monsoon seasons. Health insurance becomes essential to cover hospitalisation and treatment costs for such ailments, providing financial security in case of unexpected health issues.
3. Increasing incidence of lifestyle-related illnesses
As lifestyle diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and heart conditions become more common in Kerala, health insurance is crucial to cover expensive treatments, doctor consultations, and medications. It helps manage long-term healthcare costs for chronic illnesses that require ongoing care.
4. Ensuring no compromise on medical treatments
In Kerala, where quality medical treatments can be expensive, having health insurance ensures individuals do not compromise on receiving the best possible care. It allows access to advanced treatments and specialists without worrying about immediate financial strain, ensuring health priorities come first.
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Key features and benefits of buying health insurance in Kerala
Buying health insurance in Kerala offers several key features and benefits that are crucial for securing your and your family's health and financial well-being. For those seeking health insurance plans for family in Kerala, Bajaj Finance offers comprehensive coverage that caters to the diverse healthcare needs of families in this region. Here are some notable features and benefits of health insurance plans offered through Bajaj Finance:
1. Cashless treatment:
Health insurance plans in Kerala often feature cashless treatment options, enabling you to receive necessary medical care without upfront payments. This is particularly advantageous during emergencies, as the insurance provider directly settles the bills with the hospital.
2. Comprehensive coverage:
Most plans in Kerala offer extensive coverage, including hospitalisation, pre-and post-hospitalization expenses, daycare treatments, OPD expenses, maternity benefits, and more. This ensures you're well-prepared for various medical needs.
3. Tax benefits:
Health insurance in Kerala also provides tax benefits under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act, allowing you to save money while securing health coverage.
4. Network of hospitals:
Choose insurance plans that offer a wide network of hospitals across Kerala, ensuring you have access to quality healthcare facilities nearby. This is essential for cashless treatment and timely medical care.
5. Additional coverage options:
Depending on your specific needs, you can enhance your coverage with add-on riders, such as maternity riders to cover pregnancy and newborn expenses. This customisation allows your policy to fit your unique requirements.
6. Lifetime protection:
Many insurance providers in Kerala offer plans with lifetime renewability, ensuring you can renew your policy indefinitely and maintain lifelong coverage.
7. Coverage for lifestyle diseases:
As lifestyle diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and cholesterol become more common, comprehensive health insurance plans in Kerala cover these chronic conditions, offering financial relief from high treatment costs. Some plans also cover pre-existing conditions after a waiting period.
8. Financial security:
The primary advantage of health insurance is the financial security it provides during medical emergencies, helping you manage the rising costs of healthcare without depleting your savings.
9. Early age benefits:
Securing health insurance at a young age in Kerala typically means lower premiums. Younger individuals also tend to have fewer pre-existing conditions, making it easier and more affordable to obtain comprehensive coverage.
When choosing a health insurance plan in Kerala, it's important to consider these features and benefits. Evaluate your family's health needs, compare different plans, and select one that offers the best combination of coverage.
Also, read: Individual Health Insurance
Major health problems in Kerala
Kerala grapples with several health challenges that require comprehensive healthcare planning. Predominant health concerns include lifestyle diseases such as diabetes and hypertension, respiratory issues driven by pollution, and vector-borne diseases like dengue and chikungunya. Having a mediclaim policy in Kerala is crucial to tackling these challenges, offering financial coverage for treatments and hospitalisation, thus enabling residents to manage their health without the burden of financial stress.
Key health challenges in Kerala include:
1. Diabetes
Kerala has a high prevalence of diabetes, largely attributed to sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy diets, and genetic predispositions. The state's urban population is particularly vulnerable, and managing diabetes requires long-term medical care, making it a significant public health challenge.
2. Cancer
Cancer rates in Kerala are rising due to factors such as increased tobacco use, late detection, and environmental pollutants. Breast, lung, and gastrointestinal cancers are particularly prevalent, requiring awareness and early screening for better outcomes.
3. Heart diseases
Heart disease is a leading cause of death in Kerala, driven by risk factors like hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy diets have exacerbated the incidence of cardiac conditions across various age groups.
4. Hypertension
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is common among Kerala’s aging population, often linked to stress, poor dietary habits, and lack of exercise. It increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes, making it a critical public health issue.
5. Obesity
The incidence of obesity is rising in Kerala due to sedentary lifestyles and high consumption of unhealthy, calorie-dense foods. Obesity is linked to numerous health issues, including diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems, and requires lifestyle interventions.
6. Dengue
Dengue fever outbreaks are frequent in Kerala, especially during the monsoon season. Mosquito-borne diseases pose a significant threat to public health, leading to hospitalisations and placing stress on the healthcare system.
7. Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a waterborne bacterial infection that is common during Kerala's rainy season. The disease can lead to severe complications if not treated early, highlighting the need for preventive measures and prompt healthcare responses.
8. Waterborne diseases
Waterborne diseases like cholera, typhoid, and gastroenteritis are prevalent in Kerala, especially in flood-prone areas. Poor sanitation and contaminated water supplies increase the risk, making public health interventions and access to clean water essential.
