Are you like several others wondering if your current health plan covers treatment if you test positive for the novel coronavirus (COVID-19)? Most insurers have seen an increase in queries from their existing policyholders.
You may want to know if the deadly virus is covered or not? If yes, then what is the extent of the coverage, waiting period, if any, impact on current premium, and the procedure to file a claim.
All insurers are directed by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) to cover COVID-19 claims under existing health insurance plans. The policy will take care of all hospitalization costs incurred to treat the virus.
Additionally, except for the initial 30 days applicable when the policy was issued, coverage for the infection does not have any other waiting tenure. Moreover, you may available a cashless health insurance treatment within the network hospitals. Here is how you can opt for a cashless treatment:
- Intimate the insurer within 48 hours in case of emergency hospitalization; inform the insurer at least three days before admission if it is a planned hospitalization
- Complete the pre-authorization form and submit it to the hospital or third-party administrator (TPA) for initiating the claim; the insurer will approve your request and directly settle the hospital bill
The current situation requires you to stay calm and analyze your health regularly. If you notice common signs like dry cough, fever, fatigue, and breathing trouble, consult your doctor online:
- If the physician recommends a coronavirus test, visit the nearest center or choose home collection
- If the test for coronavirus is positive, do not panic and rush to a hospital; contact the doctor and follow his advice
- If you are in home quarantine, take necessary precautions like maintaining distance from other family members, sanitizing your hands, wearing masks, and monitoring the symptoms
- If the doctor suggests you to get admitted to a hospital, check for the closest healthcare facility to seek necessary treatment
Remember that your regular medical insurance plan does not cover testing expenses if the result is negative.
If you do not have insurance, opt for the Corona Kavach Policy, which is an indemnity cover for health insurance for coronavirus. It is available for Indian citizens aged between 18 to 65. The sum insured (SI) starts from INR 50,000; some insurers offer an SI of up to INR 5 lakh with a 15-day waiting period. This coronavirus health insurance policy is a short-term plan available for 3.5, 6.5, and 9.5 months.
Coverage is available for in-patient treatment for at least 24 hours, pre- and post-hospitalization expenses, and home care expenses for up to 14 days. If you are uninsured, get your COVID-19 health insurance policy today.
