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Health Insurance in Delhi

In Delhi, health insurance is vital due to rising healthcare costs and pollution-related health risks. ...Read More

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 Health insurance in Delhi

Health Insurance in Delhi

Health Insurance in Delhi
October 08, 2024

 

What is Health Insurance in Delhi ?

Delhi, being the bustling capital of India, presents a diverse and vibrant tapestry of medical care options. However, with rising healthcare costs and high levels of air pollution, it has become crucial for citizens to safeguard themselves against unforeseen medical expenses. This is where health insurance in Delhi comes into the picture. 

Offering a safety net against medical emergencies, health insurance is an investment that delivers peace of mind and financial security. Read below to find affordable health insurance plans with comprehensive coverage. 

Health Statistics of Delhi  

Here are the health statistics of Delhi

  • Delhi ranks 5th among the States worst affected by diabetes.

  • The health problems of 80% of the population in Delhi are due to severe pollution.

  • The number of child cancer cases is the highest in Delhi.

  • The most common cancers in Delhi are breast cancer among women and lung cancer among men.

  • In the last five years, Delhi recorded the highest number of dengue cases.

  • 24.1% of women and 32.8% of men are diagnosed with hypertension in Delhi.

Significance of Health Insurance in Delhi

Health insurance plans play a pivotal role considering the skyrocketing medical expenses in the national capital. With high levels of pollution in the city, out-of-pocket expenses for treatments are well outside the average person’s budget. This makes having medical insurance in Delhi a necessity. 

It provides financial coverage for hospitalisation costs, diagnostic tests, doctor consultations, and more. By having a health insurance policy, residents can access quality healthcare without worrying about the financial burden. Moreover, it brings an array of additional benefits that ensure individuals are adequately protected against any medical contingencies.

Reasons to Buy Online Health Insurance in Delhi?

Purchasing health insurance online in Delhi brings several advantages. It offers –

  • Convenience, as the entire process can be completed from the comfort of one's home.

  • Online policies provide better affordability, as insurance companies eliminate intermediaries' commissions.

  • Moreover, online health insurance plans are more customizable than traditional options. They allow individuals to compare, choose and customize policies as per their unique requirements.

Advantages of Health Insurance in Delhi 

Health insurance in Delhi offers several benefits, including –

  • Cashless hospitalisation facilities

  • Coverage for pre and post-hospitalisation expenses

  • Coverage of ambulance rides and room rent

  • Tax benefits under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act* and

  • Access to a wide network of hospitals and healthcare providers

It also provides coverage for critical illnesses, maternity expenses, and day-care procedures, offering comprehensive protection to policyholders.

Key Health Issues in Delhi

The key health issues in Delhi are:

  • Cancer

According to the NCRP (National Cancer Registry Program), Delhi has the highest number of cancer cases in India. In 2022, 26,735 cases were reported. PBCR, the Delhi Population-Based Cancer Registry by AIIMs, has predicted that the number of cancer cases may rise by 26% by 2026 compared to 2021.

  • Diabetes

The Lancet journal studies concluded that Delhi has the highest rate of diabetes in the country. Around 17.8% of the Delhi population has diabetes. The ICMR studies revealed that the pre-diabetes and diabetes cases are equal. This infers stabilisation of the disease in the State.

  • Hypertension

The 5th National Family Health Survey (NFHS) shows that the number of hypertension cases in Delhi is 8.8% of the national average, which is alarming. According to the survey, for every three men in Delhi, one suffers from hypertension.  Experts say that obesity due to a sedentary lifestyle and poor diet can be the reason for hypertension in Delhi.

  • Obesity

Obesity is another growing concern in Delhi. The primary reasons are diet and lack of physical activity. The 5th National Family Health Survey indicates that 41.3% of women and 38% of men in the age group 15 to 49 are either overweight or obese. Even 4% of children below 5 are obese.

  • Dengue

The survey indicates the highest number of dengue cases in the capital city. The rampant breeding of mosquitos is the main cause. As per the National Center for Vector-borne Diseases Control, the number of cases reported till June 30th 2024, is 381, which is lesser than the 16866 cases reported in 2023.

How Much Health Insurance Coverage Do You Need in Delhi?

The amount of health insurance coverage you need in Delhi varies depending on factors such as age, lifestyle, medical history, and most importantly your budget. A general guideline suggests opting for coverage ranging from 5 to 10 times your annual income. It is important to assess your individual needs and consult an insurance expert to determine the appropriate coverage that safeguards you against medical costs efficiently.

Things Which Are Covered under Health Insurance Plans in Delhi

Health insurance plans in Delhi typically cover a wide range of medical expenses. These include in-patient hospitalisation, pre and post-hospitalisation expenses, daycare procedures, ambulance charges, and organ donor expenses. In some cases, maternity benefits, outpatient department (OPD) consultations, and alternative treatments like Ayurveda, homoeopathy, and naturopathy may also be covered.

Things to Consider before Purchasing Health Insurance in Delhi?

Consider the following factors before purchasing health insurance in Delhi –

  • Coverage and benefits

  • Network hospitals

  • Claim settlement ratio of the insurer

  • Waiting periods for pre-existing diseases

  • Premium affordability

  • Add-on benefits

Evaluating these aspects helps in making an informed decision and selecting a policy that aligns with your healthcare needs.

Things That Are Not Covered under Health Insurance Plans in Delhi?

Common exclusions for health insurance in Delhi are – 

  • Investigational treatments

  • Self-inflicted injuries

  • Cosmetic procedures

  • Injuries arising from hazardous activities

  • HIV/AIDS-related treatments

  • Non-allopathic treatments unless specified

  • Pre-existing diseases are excluded for a specified waiting period

It is essential to review the policy document to understand the specific exclusions that apply to your health insurance plan.

Why is Health Insurance Necessary in Delhi?

Health insurance in Delhi is a must for the following reasons:

  • Extremely Bad Air Quality

Delhi is considered the most polluted city in the country. The pollution level is 100 times over the safe level. The Air Quality Index (API) reached 500, i.e., the hazardous level. The average AQI in 2023 was 204, which is considered poor quality. The attributes of the bad air quality are transport dust, industries, waste disposal, diesel generator sets, etc. Pollution-related issues like asthma, lower respiratory infections, heart disease, and skin issues are on the rise in Delhi, which creates the need for medical insurance in Delhi.

  • High Rate of Lifestyle Diseases

A sedentary lifestyle, bad diet, and pollution have resulted in lifestyle diseases like hypertension, obesity, and diabetes. The medical expenses of these issues are exorbitant. For access to quality treatment, having health insurance in Delhi is a must. 

  • Commonness of Diseases Spread by Vectors

The capital city is struggling with vector-borne diseases, especially dengue, with around 7900 cases reported in 2023. Most dengue cases require hospitalisation as well as ICU admission in severe cases. Medical insurance Delhi will make the treatment possible without any financial stress.

  • Increase in Medical Costs

With the rising medical costs in Delhi, even a single day of hospitalisation can burn a hole in your pocket. The best health insurance in Delhi will make the treatment affordable even for a severe case in a reputed hospital.

  • Never Settle for Less In Treatment

The rising medical cost has made timely treatment almost impossible for many. Some of them postpone the treatment or go for economical options. Health insurance in Delhi helps in overcoming these issues and makes timely and quality treatment affordable, so you need not compromise on your health. 

Tips for Finding the Best Health Insurance Policy in Delhi

The best health insurance policy in Delhi can make treatment for health issues possible without any financial stress. But how to find the best health insurance Delhi. Here are some tips you can follow:

  • Evaluate What You Need

Health insurance in Delhi will serve the purpose only if it aligns with your needs. Consider your existing medical conditions, your family medical history, age, the inflation rate, etc, while evaluating your need. 

  • Use the Online Tool to Calculate Your Health Insurance Premium

The premium for health insurance Delhi should align with your budget. Use an online health insurance premium calculator to choose among the affordable health insurance plans with premiums within your budget for specific coverage. 

  • Choose the Option That Covers The Most

Adequate coverage is necessary to avoid surprises when you submit claims. It is recommended to go for the maximum coverage at an affordable premium so that you do not land up in a financial crisis if frequent treatment is required for the upkeep of your health. You can also seek the different critical illness insurance riders available to ensure broader coverage.

  • Look at the Network Hospitals

The cashless hospitalisation feature is an advantage which replaces the laborious reimbursement process. You do not have to go through the stress of arranging bulk finance or heavy paperwork. The hospital coordinates with the insurance company directly for approval of hospitalisation costs and payments. However, this feature is only available in in-network hospitals. So, you should look for network hospitals of your choice, preferably closer to your location, before investing in medical insurance Delhi.

  • Check What is Not Covered

Health insurance in Delhi incorporates some exclusions. You must read the terms and conditions for exclusions before investing in medical insurance in Delhi to avoid surprises during a claim settlement. Invest in a plan that has minimum exclusions for optimum benefit. 

  • Waiting Period

Health insurance in Delhi does not allow claims for a specific period after the purchase of the policy, especially for pre-existing diseases. This period is termed the waiting period. Choose a plan with a minimum waiting period to mitigate this disadvantage. While you are at it, check the claim settlement ratio of your shortlisted insurance providers for informed decision-making. 

  • Deductions at Claims

Premiums paid for health insurance in Delhi are eligible for deductions under Section 80D (Income Tax Act 1961*) for up to a limit. This limit depends on the age of the insured. For individuals below 60 years, the limit fixed is Rs. 25000/-. However, in the case of health insurance for senior citizens, the limit is Rs. 50000.

What Is the Health Insurance Claim Procedure in Delhi? 

To make a health insurance claim in Delhi, follow the steps mentioned below:

Step 1: Inform the insurance company or TPA (Third Party Administrator) about the hospitalisation or planned treatment.

Step 2: Fill out the claim form accurately, attaching all relevant documents such as medical bills, prescriptions, reports, and discharge summary.

Step 3: Submit the claim form and documents to the insurer for verification.

Step 4: For cashless claims, ensure treatment is availed at a network hospital.

Step 5: For reimbursement claims, settle the bills first and then submit the required documents along with claim forms.

Step 6: Cooperate with the insurer during the claim settlement process for a smooth experience. Once approved, the insurer will make the payment directly to the hospital or reimburse you for the expenses incurred, as per the policy terms.

Health Insurance in Delhi for NRIs

Non-resident Indians are also eligible to invest in the best health insurance in Delhi. A health insurance for NRI takes care of their medical expenses in case of a medical emergency during their stay in Delhi. They can also utilise the same plan even when they relocate to Delhi permanently. 

NRIs also have the option to buy health insurance in Delhi for their parents who live there. This will take care of any medical emergencies of their parents when the NRIs are away from the country. NRIs are eligible for a GST refund on the premiums paid towards medical insurance Delhi.   

How to Renew HDFC Life Health Insurance in Delhi?

Renew your HDFC Life health insurance policy in Delhi through the following steps:

Step 1: Visit the official HDFC Life website or download the mobile app.

Step 2: Locate the 'Renew Policy' section and provide the required details like policy number and personal information.

Step 3: Review the policy coverage, premium amount, and any changes in terms and conditions.

Step 4: Make the premium payment online through the available payment options.

Step 5: After successful payment, your policy will be renewed, and you will receive the updated policy documents.

What Are the Types of Health Insurance in Delhi?

Health insurance in Delhi offers various types of health insurance plans, including:

  1. Individual Health Insurance: Covers an individual policyholder's medical expenses and offers specific benefits

  2. Family Floater Health Insurance: Provides coverage for the entire family under a single insurance policy with a single sum insured and premium 

  3. Senior Citizen Health Insurance: Meant for individuals above a certain age, this policy addresses the healthcare needs of the elderly

  4. Group Health Insurance: Offered by employers or organisations to provide coverage to a group of individuals, such as employees

  5. Critical Illness Insurance: Provides a lump sum payout upon diagnosis of specified critical illnesses

  6. Top-up Health Insurance: Offers additional coverage over that of an existing health insurance policy

  7. Hospital Daily Cash Plans: Provides a lump sum benefit for each day of hospitalisation

  8. Personal Accident Insurance: Provides compensation to the policyholder or nominee in the case of accidental death or disability. 

FAQs on Health insurance in Delhi

Q1. Which health insurance is best in Delhi?

The best health insurance in Delhi varies depending on individual needs and preferences. The factors that play a major role in choosing a health insurance plan are dependent on factors like the medical history of the individual, their age, the preferred coverage and so on. It is advisable to compare policies from reliable insurers and review coverages, benefits, and premium affordability before making a decision.

Q2. Is Rs. 2 lakh health insurance enough in Delhi?

While Rs. 2 lakh health insurance coverage provides some financial protection, rising healthcare costs make it advisable to avail a higher sum insured. It is recommended to have a coverage amount of around Rs. 10 lakh for an individual health insurance policy. Your health insurance coverage depends on factors such as age, lifestyle, and medical needs. It is advisable to assess your requirements regularly and opt for comprehensive protection.

Q3. What is the right age to buy health insurance in Delhi?

The right age to buy health insurance in Delhi is early in life when individuals are healthy and premiums are lower. However, it is never too late to invest in health insurance. The younger, the better to avoid potential future complications. Buying health insurance early ensures lower premiums, better coverage for pre-existing diseases, and cumulative benefits over time.

Q4. How can I get health insurance quotes in Delhi?

Insurance quotes vary based on age, medical history, coverage requirements, and other factors. To get health insurance quotes in Delhi, you can visit online insurance aggregator websites or the official websites of insurance providers. Fill in the required details such as age, gender, coverage amount, and medical history to get an estimate. Compare quotes from different insurers to make an informed decision.

Q5. Are health insurance rates less in Delhi?

Health insurance rates in Delhi may vary depending on the insurer, sum insured, the individual's age and medical history, and network hospital tie-ups. While rates are subject to market conditions, factors such as demand and price of medical care in Delhi can affect premium rates. Compare policies to find the best rates for your requirements.

Q6. Which is the best time to port my medical insurance in Delhi?

The best time to port your medical insurance in Delhi is generally before the renewal date of your existing policy. Ensure that you apply for portability at least 45 days before the renewal date to provide sufficient time for the porting process. Porting allows you to switch to a different insurer while retaining your accrued benefits.

Q7. What is the advantage of having a medical insurance policy in Delhi?

The advantages of having a medical insurance policy in Delhi include financial protection against skyrocketing medical expenses, access to quality healthcare, cashless treatment, pre and post-hospitalisation coverage, tax benefits, and peace of mind during medical emergencies.

Q.8 How do you select health insurance?

To select the best health insurance plan, consider the following factors:

  • Look for a plan with maximum coverage at an affordable premium.
  • Go for a family floater instead of an individual plan.
  • Choose a plan with lifetime renewability.
  • Compares quotes of different plans for an informed decision.
  • Look for the network hospitals of your choice.
  • Buy the plan from an insurance company with the highest claim ratio.

Q9. What is the waiting period for health insurance?

Most health insurance plans do not allow claims for a specific period from the date of purchase of the plan. This period normally pertains to pre-existing diseases. This period is known as the waiting period in health insurance.

Reference links:

https://ncvbdc.mohfw.gov.in/index4.php?lang=1&level=0&linkid=431&lid=3715

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1991970

 

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Francis Rodrigues Francis Rodrigues

Francis Rodrigues has a decade long experience in the insurance sector, and as SVP, E-Commerce and Digital Marketing, HDFC Life, manages the online sales channel, as well as digital and performance marketing. He has had hands-on experience in setting up sales channels and functional teams from scratch over a career spanning 2 decades.

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Author Profile Written By:
Vishal Subharwal Vishal Subharwal

Vishal Subharwal heads the Strategy, Marketing, E-Commerce, Digital Business & Sustainability initiatives at HDFC Life. He is responsible for crafting and ensuring successful implementation of the overall organisation strategy.

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