Heart and cardiovascular diseases have become among the most prevalent diseases, a primary reason for deaths worldwide. According to WHO (World Health Organisation), cardiovascular diseases take 17.9 million lives yearly.
It includes heart attacks, artery diseases, congenital heart defects and more that require emergency and specialised treatments. However, such treatments are very expensive, which is rising daily. It is because having critical illness insurance such as a cardiac health insurance plan or heart cover insurance gives you coverage against various heart and cardiac diseases and helps you to manage qualitative treatment in an emergency.
In this article, we will discuss health insurance for individuals with heart and cardiac conditions, its coverages, benefits and other related aspects.
What is Cardiac Insurance?
Cardiac health insurance is an insurance plan designed to cover heart-related and cardiovascular conditions. It covers treatments like angioplasty, bypass surgery, and stent placement. This insurance plan can be customised according to a policyholder’s history of heart disease. However, some companies cover cardiac conditions as part of their coverage like Tata AIG General Insurance. So you can choose the insurance policy according to your specific healthcare needs.
Now let’s see what are some coverages covered under this cardiac or heart insurance:
- Coverage for daycare, pre and post-hospitalization expenses.
- Coverage for heart-related organ transplant procedures.
- Assurance of emergency hospitalisation coverage out of the country.
- Coverages for surgeries and cardiac procedures.
- Room rent for a comfortable hospital stay.
- Coverage for pre-existing heart conditions after waiting periods.
- Support for domiciliary treatment when hospitalization isn’t possible.
- Coverage of annual health check-ups for proactive care.
- Critical illness coverage for major cardiac conditions.
Can a Heart Patient Get Health Insurance in India?
Yes, individuals with a history of heart conditions can typically get the benefits of health insurance plans in India. However, there might be certain conditions and considerations to keep in mind:
- Medical Tests: When you apply for a health insurance plan with a history of heart conditions, the insurance company will likely perform the medical tests before deciding on the terms of your coverage.
- Waiting Periods: Insurance companies may impose waiting periods before covering pre-existing conditions like heart-related issues. During this period, you are not entitled to claim expenses related to your heart condition, but after the waiting period, you can claim them.
- Premium and Coverage: The premium you’ll pay for health insurance might be higher according to the severity and potential risks of the pre-existing heart condition. The coverage might also have certain limitations or exclusions related to your heart condition.
- Disclosure: Providing accurate and honest information about your medical history while applying for health insurance is essential. However, failing to disclose your heart condition might lead to claim denials in the future.
Importance of Medical Insurance for Individuals with Heart and Cardiac Conditions
- It provides a financial shield against high medical costs associated with heart treatments.
- It enables access to quality medical care without delays.
- It provides comprehensive coverage and quick access to medical help during cardiac emergencies.
- It allows treatment at top hospitals and specialised cardiac centres.
- It provides the convenience of cashless hospitalisation in network hospitals.
- It helps to accumulate a claim bonus for claim-free years.
- It provides the opportunity to add riders for enhanced coverage.
- It gives peace of mind and a sense of security during a challenging health journey.
What are Some Different Insurance Plans for Heart and Cardiac Patients?
- Individual Health Insurance: These are the standard health insurance plans designed for individuals to offer various medical expenses related to heart conditions.
- Critical Illness Insurance: These plans provide a lump sum payment upon diagnosis of a critical illness, including heart-related conditions.
- Pre-Existing Condition Plans: They are specific plans for individuals with pre-existing conditions, tailored coverage for cardiac treatments.
- Group Health Insurance: These are workplace-based insurance, often accommodating pre-existing conditions, suitable for heart patients.
- Medicare Supplement Plans: It means additional coverage for medical expenses not covered by basic Medicare is potentially helpful for cardiac patients.
- High-Deductible Health Plans: These are the higher deductibles plans often paired with Health Savings Accounts to cover heart-related costs.
- Hospital Indemnity Insurance: These plans provide a fixed daily amount during hospital stays due to covered conditions, such as heart issues.
Conclusion
Having the right health insurance plan is necessary whether you are fine or a heart patient. It saves you from the financial burden of rising Medicare costs and provides security in case of any unforeseen events. However, health insurance plans, especially for individuals with heart or cardiac disease, work as a preventive and proactive step towards securing and managing their health and improving overall well-being.
