There are many things in life one simply has no or little control over. Health is certainly one such thing. Although exerting full control over health is nearly impossible, investing in a suitable healthcare insurance policy is one step closer. However, that is not all. Many policyholders believe their healthcare plans are enough to take care of all types of illnesses; this is not true.
Traditional medical policies do not cover critical illnesses. Consequently, buying critical illness insurance can be a lifesaver for those diagnosed with a serious and long-term illness that requires expensive treatment.
What is it? And why is it better to buy one despite having healthcare insurance? Please read the article to learn about it.
What is a Critical Illness Health Cover?
A critical illness healthcare insurance policy protects the policyholder from severe life-threatening ailments like cancer, heart attacks, renal failure, etc. The plan offers a lump sum amount to assist in managing the high medical costs associated with these critical illnesses.
Features of a Critical Illness Health Cover
Some primary features of the best critical illness policy in India are as follows:
1. Affordable Premium
With the increasing medical expenses associated with critical illnesses, buying critical illness coverage is very important. Comprehensive critical illness coverage is cost-effective. Its affordable premium ensures that individuals do not get burdened financially during health crises.
2. Lump Sum Amount
The insurance provider disburses a substantial sum if a policyholder is diagnosed with an illness covered by their critical illness healthcare insurance policy. The insured can then utilise the fund to cover costly hospital expenses.
3. Comprehensive Coverage
Critical illness healthcare insurance offers wide coverage for serious medical diseases, including multiple sclerosis, kidney failure, cancer, heart attacks, and strokes. It provides access to specialised and required medical care and improves the chances of a successful recovery.
4. Financial Security
A critical illness insurance policy provides financial security for the policyholder and their family. It allows them to focus on treatment without financial concerns. The insurance plan safeguards their savings and prevents future financial setbacks.
Inclusion and Exclusion Under a Critical Illness Cover Plan
Given below are the inclusions and exclusions under the critical illness policy.
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
| Stroke | Death occurring during the survival period |
| Open heart coronary artery bypass grafting | Treatments received outside of India |
| Cancer | Reproduction assisting treatments |
| Major Organ Transplant | Cosmetic surgery and dental care |
| Paralysis | HIV/AIDS is not covered under this policy |
| Kidney Failure | Pregnancy or childbirth-related complications |
| Heart Valve Replacement | Critical illness resulting from a congenital disorder |
It is essential to note that inclusions and exclusions can significantly vary depending on the insurance provider.
Benefits of a Critical Illness Cover Plan
A critical illness policy can be beneficial for various reasons. For instance,
1. Cover Against Life-Threatening Disease
Critical Illness policies typically encompass a comprehensive range of common critical illnesses. Policyholders can ascertain medical care for the covered conditions in the unfortunate event of a diagnosis.
2. Global Coverage
Medical treatment abroad can be exceptionally costly, but with a critical illness healthcare insurance policy offering global coverage, one can access top-notch care without concerns about the expenses.
If an individual receives a health diagnosis, having the option to use the policy payout for superior treatment in another country can be invaluable.
3. Tax Benefit
Policyholders can take advantage of tax exemptions under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act 1961. The clause permits a tax advantage of ₹15,000 for individuals and up to ₹20,000 for seniors.
4. Income Benefit
During a critical illness, an individual’s capacity to work might be compromised. It can potentially impact their ability to support themselves and their dependents. Receiving a lump sum payment from the insurer can assist in managing expenses during this challenging period.
Steps-By-Step Claim Process Under a Critical Illness Cover Plan
The claim process may vary from one insurance provider to another. However, the general procedure follows the given steps:
Step 1: Notify the Insurer
Policyholders must notify the insurer and initiate the claim soon after receiving a diagnosis for a covered critical illness.
Step 2: Provide Documents
Submit the necessary documents to back the claim.
Step 3: Insurer Assessment
The insurer will assess the claim based on policy terms and the provided information, determining whether to approve or deny it.
Conclusion
Obtaining the best critical illness insurance policy in India alongside regular medical insurance is a prudent financial decision. The additional coverage offers a lump sum payment in the event of severe illnesses to prevent financial setbacks.
With comprehensive coverage, tax benefits, and global treatment options, a critical illness health care insurance plan provides crucial security for policyholders and their families.
With the selection of the Niva Bupa the best health Insurance plans, one can avail themselves of extensive coverage and the best critical illness insurance India. Their policies have been designed to offer the maximum protection possible at a reasonable price.