Chennai, Dec 23, 2025 – With hospital bills soaring amid lifestyle diseases like diabetes and heart issues, health insurance isn`t optional anymore - it`s your financial lifeline. Experts urge buyers to skip the premium trap and prioritize plans that deliver real protection. Here`s a straightforward roadmap to get it right.
Essential Must-Haves for Ironclad Coverage
Ditch policies with co-pays or room rent caps - they look cheap upfront but hit your wallet hard in hospitals. Insist on no sub-limits for specific ailments, short waiting periods for pre-existing conditions (PEDs), and perks like pre/post-hospitalization coverage, sum insured restoration, daycare procedures, and consumables (think gloves and syringes).
Be Honest About Your Health History
Full disclosure of PEDs - from congenital issues to past treatments - is non-negotiable. Insurers use this for underwriting; hiding it risks claim denials. Transparency now means payouts later.
Coverage Amount: Don`t Skimp
India`s average hospital claim? ₹5-6 lakh. Aim for at least ₹10 lakh base cover, but ₹25-50 lakh is smarter for families in cities like Chennai, where costs are steeper.
Bonus Features That Pay Off
Look for free health check-ups, AYUSH (Ayurveda, yoga) coverage, home hospitalization, and no-claim bonuses to boost your sum insured yearly.
Pick a Reliable Partner
Go for insurers with stellar claim settlement records and agents with 5+ years` experience. Check online ratings and avoid fly-by-night operators.
In an era of medical uncertainty, the right policy brings peace of mind. Research thoroughly - your future self will thank you.