Health Insurance Cover for Senior Citizens: A Complete Guide
As you grow older, your body becomes frailer and your immunity weakens. That is why you become vulnerable to disorders, diseases and injuries. You need some extra care and support during these years. And that is why you need a health insurance policy, so that should your health fail, the policy will see to all your medical expenses and ensure that you get the best treatment. Many people wonder, "Can I get health insurance if I am over 65?" since most health care plans cap the entry age at 65. But today many insurance companies have special health insurance covers for the elderly, especially those above 65 because their health needs to be safeguarded too.
Why are companies formulating critical illness plans for the elderly?
Things have changed in the 21st century. With inflation having gone through the roof, medical expenses have become exorbitant. Treatment for any illness can severely strain a person's finances, especially if he/she is a senior citizen. This happens because by that time people retire and their source of income dwindles.
Moreover, rising pollution levels too are ushering in a number of health challenges, and the elderly are highly susceptible to them. So, companies have realized that the need of the hour is to bring senior citizens (this section of the population is consistently expanding) into the fold of insurance coverage.
What benefits can you expect from a health insurance plan for senior citizens?
A health plan for senior citizens will provide the same benefits as a regular medical care plan. Let's take a look at them -
- It will cover pre and post-hospitalization costs, doctor's consultation fees, room rent, diagnostic tests etc.
- Senior citizens will get to make the most of tax benefits under section 80D of the Income Tax Act
- The facility of cashless treatment
- Daycare expenses
- Ambulance charges
- You will not have to undergo special medical tests to purchase the policy
- Most insurance providers will cover pre-existing illnesses
- You will be offered a higher quantum of sum insured
- The hassle-free claim settlement process
Few things to keep in mind
Coverage: There might be a few exclusions in your policy. Read the fine print and only opt for a policy that provides extensive coverage against illnesses.
Premium: It's possible that you will have to pay a steeper premium for your health cover. But even so, compare policies and purchase one that requires you to pay less premium than others, without compromising on the coverage.
Conclusion
Health insurance cover is available for senior citizens. If you don't already have a health scheme, get one right away.
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