As medical expenses continue to rise, having health insurance becomes essential for elderly individuals. Universal Sompo’s health insurance for senior citizens provides financial security and access to quality healthcare without the stress of high medical costs. Read on to know more.
Investing in health insurance plans for senior citizens has several advantages. Here are some key benefits –
As individuals grow older, they are more likely to experience health issues requiring frequent doctor visits, hospitalization, or specialized treatments. A senior citizen health policy provides comprehensive coverage for these needs, including hospitalization, surgery, doctor consultations, and even post-hospitalization expenses.
According to a 2023 report by the National Health Authority, medical inflation in India is rising 12-14% annually. As healthcare is becoming increasingly expensive for elderly individuals, it is crucial to have health insurance plans for senior citizens for adequate coverage.
Senior citizens are more susceptible to critical illnesses like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. A mediclaim policy for senior citizens offers coverage for these illnesses that are more common in older age, giving seniors the necessary support when needed most.
Older adults may not have easy access to top-tier healthcare. The best health insurance for senior citizens provides them access to a vast network of hospitals and specialists. This way, they will receive prompt, high-quality care without the worry of expenses.
A health insurance policy for senior citizens offers peace of mind by eliminating the worry about unaffordable medical bills. Financial aid during illness lessens stress and allows seniors to focus on recovery.
A senior citizen health insurance policy also offers tax benefits under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act, 1961. You can claim tax deductions of up to –
With Universal Sompo, the elderly get
The extent of hospitalization expense coverage under senior citizen health insurance is detailed within the policy's limits. In addition, medical expenses arising 30 days before hospitalization are included under the policy. This covers necessary pre-hospitalization tests and consultations. Similarly, payments for post-hospitalization treatment are covered for up to 60 days after discharge, helping you manage follow-up care without financial strain.
Universal Some medical procedures do not require a full 24-hour hospital stay but are still essential for treatment. Senior citizen mediclaim policy covers specific daycare treatments and surgeries, which allows necessary medical attention without extended hospitalization.
In case of a medical emergency, the cost of using an ambulance to reach the hospital is reimbursed under the policy with Universal Sompo. This coverage is limited to 1% of the sum insured, or ₹1,500, or actual amount incurred in such transportation whichever is lower. If the actual ambulance expense is lower than this amount, the policy will cover the exact cost incurred.
If a doctor prescribes treatment at home due to the unavailability of a hospital bed or the patient's inability to move, the policy covers these expenses. The mediclaim for senior citizens provides domiciliary hospitalization coverage, which is limited to 50% of the sum insured or the actual cost incurred, whichever is lower.
A senior citizen's health insurance in India includes coverage for periodic medical check-ups. After completing three consecutive claim-free years (the charges incurred for medical check-up once in a block of every 3 claims free years), eligible senior citizens can get a health check-up reimbursement of up to 1.25% of the average sum insured [STUM1] or the actual cost, whichever is lower. For floater policies, this limit applies collectively to two insured family members.
For each continuous 24-hour period of hospitalization, the senior citizen health policy provides a daily cash allowance, limited to the lower of 0.1% of the sum insured or ₹250, with an overall policy maximum of ₹2,500.
When an insured individual is hospitalized, a caregiver may be needed. The senior citizen health plan with Universal Sompo reimburses the expenses of the accompanying person, up to 1% of the sum insured or the actual amount, whichever is lower. It helps cover costs for a companion staying at the hospital to assist the insured senior citizen.
When looking to buy health insurance for senior citizens, evaluate
Review the coverage benefits, including hospitalization, critical illness coverage, ambulance charges, and pre-existing disease coverage before purchasing a senior citizen health policy.
Most plans have a waiting period before pre-existing diseases are covered. Choose a policy with a shorter waiting period to access benefits sooner.
Some mediclaim policies for senior citizens have a co-payment clause. It needs the insured to pay a percentage of the claim amount. Pick a policy with a low or no co-payment.
Verify the insurance provider's network of hospitals offering cashless treatment. A broad network facilitates access to quality medical care.
A high claim settlement ratio indicates that the insurance provider processes claims efficiently. This ensures a smooth claim process when required.
Identify the best health insurance for senior citizens in India with the most benefits within a reasonable budget. Don't let a low price mean sacrificing necessary coverage.
Purchasing the best health insurance for senior citizens requires a well-informed approach. Follow these steps –
Examine your current health condition, medical history, and expected future expenses before you finalize a senior citizen health plan.
Evaluate various health insurance plans for senior citizens based on coverage, premiums, benefits, and exclusions. Use online comparison tools for better decision-making.
Select an appropriate sum insured amount to cover hospitalization and critical illness costs. A higher sum insured can help cover major medical expenses.
Understand the waiting period for pre-existing diseases and check for any exclusions in the senior citizen health insurance before purchasing.
Some policies offer add-ons like wellness programs, annual health check-ups, and domiciliary hospitalization. These added benefits enhance the overall coverage.
Many insurance providers like Universal Sompo offer an easy online application process. Buying a mediclaim policy for senior citizens online is quick, paperless, and convenient.
Set the ball rolling by requesting for cashless approval through a network hospital. Post which we evaluate and approve/reject the request.
After approval, go ahead with the hospitalization.
The claim gets settled directly with the hospital upon discharge.
Settle the bill with the hospital and share the original documents and invoices with us.
We authenticate the documents.
The approved amount gets deposited in your bank account.
Health insurance for senior citizens with Universal Sompo has a smooth claim settlement process. Here is the process -
For cashless hospitalization, follow these steps –
If you receive treatment at a non-network hospital, you can file a reimbursement claim -