I’m a 50-year-old marketing executive. I took out a health insurance policy worth 1 million rupees 10 years ago. I was recently diagnosed with high blood pressure and take medication every day. Will my insurance cover the cost of these medications, or are they considered part of a pre-existing condition because high blood pressure often develops gradually? If so, are they considered part of a pre-existing condition? How long do I have to wait for related costs to be covered? Also, will future complications resulting from high blood pressure, such as heart problems, be covered?
Sunita
Overcoming health challenges is a reality that many people face, and having comprehensive health insurance is essential to protecting your health. It is recommended to maintain health insurance that is 2-3 times your income, so based on this, you may want to re-evaluate your ₹10 million health insurance that you took out 10 years ago. This coverage is especially important because your health needs typically change as you age.
If you have recently been diagnosed with high blood pressure, rest assured that your insurance policy will cover all hospitalization costs related to this disease. Since hypertension often develops gradually, it is important to clarify that your case will not be classified as a pre-existing condition because it was diagnosed after the insurance policy was issued. This means you don’t have to wait for compensation for future hospitalizations related to high blood pressure.
Additionally, your insurance policy includes provisions for pre-hospitalization and post-hospitalization costs. This means that all necessary medications and consultations related to high blood pressure before and after hospitalization are covered. Specifically, expenses incurred up to a specified number of days before hospitalization and expenses for a certain period after discharge will be reimbursed according to the insurance conditions. This includes diagnostic tests, consultations with health care providers, and prescription medications, all of which are covered by your insurance.
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For more comprehensive coverage, you may want to opt for outpatient department (OPD) coverage. OPD benefits allow you to claim the cost of consultations, diagnostic tests, and medicines without having to be hospitalized. This feature is particularly advantageous in managing chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, which often require ongoing treatment and regular medication. If you choose OPD coverage, regular doctor visits and prescription drugs will also be covered, subject to the terms of that rider.
Complications caused by high blood pressure, such as heart disease, are also covered. This comprehensive approach ensures that you are protected from the financial burden of medical costs associated with serious health complications related to high blood pressure.
According to the WHO, one in five adults has high blood pressure. However, effectively managing high blood pressure helps maintain overall health, reduces the risk of serious complications such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems, and improves overall health. is very important. Some insurance companies offer wellness programs specifically designed to help manage chronic conditions such as high blood pressure. These programs provide valuable resources and strategies to manage your health. Choosing an insurance company that has a long track record of resolving insurance claims and is also invested in providing health initiatives will help you proactively manage your condition while remaining insured against future medical events. This is an important step to do so.
The author is an MD and CEO of Star Health and Allied Insurance.
