Buying Health Insurance? Keep these things in mind to get best plans

The skyrocketing cost of medical treatment has led to more and more people opting for health insurance in the last few years. But having the right health insurance policy is not a cakewalk at all. So, if you are planning to buy health insurance, it is important to expand your knowledge and understand certain basic things before making a final decision.

Here are a few points to help simplify your buying journey. 

Choose your top healthcare requirements

There are various health insurance plans available in the market. According to Shashank Chaphekar - Chief Distribution Officer, ManipalCigna Health Insurance - the first point of consideration should be your requirements. 

"Identify the need for which you are planning to get the plan. For example, how much coverage do you need 10 lakh or 1 crore.  Do you need coverage for yourself or the entire family? Or do you need a comprehensive health plan that can help you to get access to quality healthcare in India and Abroad? Once, you are clear of your requirements, the plans can be sorted easily on this basis," Chaphekar said.

Choose the provider who is the health insurance expert 

Whatever health insurance plan you ultimately buy for the preferred premium and other factors, the indelible fact remains that you should look for a health insurance expert to help simplify the choice, to choose the right plan that suits your unique health needs, and to easily access quality healthcare. Dealing with a reputable insurance provider ensures that you get excellence across all touchpoints. 

Choose the right plan with the right coverage

Seek a provider that has an array of fully loaded individual or family plans that can be customised as per need, has easy online purchase and renewal methods, a range of wellness benefits and features that offer comprehensive coverage. This means that the plan covers hospitalisation and treatment costs, has the lowest waiting period, also covers cashless OPD expenses, non-medical expenses, doctor consultations, etc. When you buy a health plan, also aim for adequate coverage covering expenses after you cross 50 or 60 years. Remember to get a coverage amount that could apply to your old age.

Choose the provider that has better claims experience

Filing for a claim is the most important step in owning a health insurance policy. It can also be a very tedious process. That is why you should check the claim process of the provider carefully before investing in it. 

"Some of the things you should look out for include the process of filing your claim, the company’s claim history and the documents needed to file the claim. Thus, invest a little time to choose a provider that has a quick and easy claim settlement process, to ensure a smooth settlement of your health insurance claims," Chaphekar said. 

Remember, a comprehensive health insurance plan with a high sum insured will give you a better healthcare experience. So, make sure you consider the above-mentioned points to understand the plan better and to make an informed decision.