Health Insurance Policy: Key Terms and Definitions - 3 minutes read


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As healthcare costs continue to rise in India, purchasing a comprehensive health insurance policy from the best health insurance companies is more important than ever. However, understanding the various terms and definitions used in health insurance policies can take time and effort for many people. In this article, we'll discuss some of the key terms and definitions that you need to be familiar with when it comes to health insurance in India and provide tips for choosing the right policy for your needs.


Key Terms and Definitions:


  1. Sum Insured - This refers to the maximum amount the insurance company will pay for medical expenses during the policy term. It is important to choose an adequate sum insured to cover potential healthcare costs.
  2. Policy Term - This refers to the duration of the health insurance policy. It is typically one year but can be longer or shorter, depending on the policy.
  3. Waiting Period - This refers to the period that must elapse before the policyholder can claim certain medical conditions or treatments. Waiting periods can vary depending on the policy and the medical condition.
  4. Pre-Existing Diseases - This refers to medical conditions the policyholder had before purchasing the health insurance policy. Some policies may not cover pre-existing diseases or may have a waiting period before coverage starts.
  5. Co-Payment - This refers to the portion of the medical expenses that the policyholder must pay out of pocket. It is usually a percentage of the total cost of treatment.
  6. Network Hospitals - These are healthcare facilities that have an agreement with the insurance company to provide medical services to policyholders. Treatment at network hospitals is usually covered under the policy.
  7. Room Rent Limit - This refers to the maximum amount the policyholder can claim for room rent in a hospital. Choosing a policy with a room rent limit that is adequate for your needs is important.
  8. Day Care Procedures - These are medical procedures that can be completed in less than 24 hours. Some policies may have a list of specific daycare procedures that are covered.
  9. Sub-Limits - These are limits on the amount that can be claimed for certain medical expenses, such as ambulance charges or diagnostic tests. It is important to be aware of any sub-limits in the policy.
  10. No-Claim Bonus - This is a bonus that is given by a health insurance company to policyholders who do not make any claims during the policy term. It can reduce the cost of the policy at the time of renewal.


How to Choose an Apt Health Insurance Policy:


When choosing a health insurance policy in India, there are several factors to consider. These include:


  1. Sum Insured - Choose a sum insured that is adequate for your healthcare needs.
  2. Network Hospitals - Make sure that the policy has a good network of hospitals in your area.
  3. Waiting Period - Choose a policy with waiting periods that are reasonable and acceptable to you.
  4. Co-Payment - Choose a policy with a co-payment amount that is affordable.
  5. Room Rent Limit - Choose a policy with a room rent limit that is adequate for your needs.
  6. No-Claim Bonus - Look for policies that offer a good no-claim bonus.
  7. Premium - Compare the premium of different policies to choose one that is affordable and provides good value for money.


It is important to read the policy document carefully and understand all the terms and definitions before purchasing a health insurance policy. This helps avoid any surprises when it comes to making a claim.