I am 73 (DOB 10-07-1949). I had an open heart surgery in Sept., 1999. I am taking blood thinner otherwise ok. My wife is 66 (DOB 13-09-1956). She has no problems. I have a 5L Family Floater health insurance from Oriental Insurance - Bank Saathi Policy at an annual premium of about Rs. 35,000 for self and wife.

Since in these days this is not sufficient, I want another policy for 5L or Top Up for 5 / 10 L for self and wife. Please advise an honest suitable minimum cost affordable policy since I have limited capacity to pay because my life time savings in Punjab & Maharashtra co-op Bank Ltd., Mumbai, has been looted by bank Management, Senior Employees, HDIL Construction Co. (Wadwhans), RBI, Politicians and Govt.

Another point. Earlier I had policies with National Insurance, New India Insurance and Oriental Insurance from my Bank tie-up but one after the other they broke the tie up with Banks and offered their direct policy raising annual premium from 11,000 to 43,000 (National Insurance) and others also on same lines because they follow dishonest business policy and just want to loot the common man. How anybody can afford such increase after 8 years with Govt. co. insurance Policy? IRDA is also on their side being dishonest. Not only private but Govt. cos. are also dishonest, corrupt and want to kill the common man.

Ans: Hi Sunil, there are policies in the market who will provide you with the said coverage within the said premium grid. You can contact us at 02248971018 to explore the plan details or connect directly with an insurer of your choice to know of the various policies and plan as per your requirement.

Ans: Unfortunately, finding a new health insurance policy with pre-existing conditions like open-heart surgery can be challenging, especially at the age of 69. Here's why:

• Pre-existing Conditions: Most insurers are hesitant to cover pre-existing conditions, and open-heart surgery falls under that category.
• Age: As you age, premiums tend to rise, and insurers might be more cautious about taking on new senior citizens.

However, there are still some options to explore:

1. Renew Existing Policy with Oriental:

Check with Oriental Insurance Co. again regarding renewal. While they might not increase the sum insured to 15 lakh, they might still offer renewal on the existing 10 lakh plan.

2. Senior Citizen Mediclaim Plans:

Many insurers offer senior citizen health insurance plans designed for people above 60. These plans may have limitations on pre-existing conditions, but they could offer some coverage. You can explore options from reputable companies like Max Bupa, Care Health Insurance, or Cholamandalam MS. Research these companies online or consult an insurance broker for plan details.

3. Top-up Plans:
These plans work alongside your existing policy and provide additional coverage in case your existing sum insured gets exhausted. However, pre-existing condition exclusions might still apply. Explore top-up plans offered by your existing insurer or other companies.

4. Finding the Right Plan:

• Use online insurance comparison platforms or consult an insurance broker to compare different senior citizen mediclaim or top-up plans.
• Carefully review the policy documents, especially exclusions related to pre-existing conditions.
• Consider factors like network hospitals, co-pay clauses, and claim settlement ratio before finalising a plan.

Ans: Assessing Your Current Financial Situation

Hello Jitendra,

I understand your concerns regarding your health and financial well-being, especially given your high diabetic condition and recent family loss. You've achieved a lot professionally, and it's commendable how you're taking proactive steps to secure your family's future.

Analyzing Assets and Liabilities

Firstly, let's evaluate your assets and liabilities. You have a significant home loan and a commercial property investment. Your wife has rental income and other earnings, which is a positive aspect. However, your outstanding loan needs attention.

Your prudent decision to not engage in habits like smoking or alcohol is commendable and can positively impact your health and financial stability.

Assessing Insurance Needs

Given your health condition, obtaining term insurance might be challenging. However, we can explore other options to protect your family financially. We'll consider leveraging your existing assets, such as PF, Gratuity, and NPS, to manage the loan and ensure financial stability for your wife.

Exploring Alternative Investment Strategies

While real estate isn't recommended due to its illiquidity, we can explore other investment avenues that align with your risk profile and financial goals. As a Certified Financial Planner, I suggest considering a diversified portfolio of mutual funds, considering your risk appetite and investment horizon.

Planning for Your Son's Future

Your son's education and settlement abroad are crucial considerations. We can devise a strategy to ensure his financial needs are met without compromising your retirement plans or your wife's financial security.

Mitigating Risks

Given your health concerns, it's essential to have a contingency plan in place. We'll explore options to create an emergency fund and optimize existing resources to cover medical expenses and other unforeseen circumstances.

Maintaining Positive Outlook

Despite the challenges you're facing, maintaining a positive attitude is admirable. Together, we'll work towards restoring your financial position and ensuring peace of mind for you and your family.

Jitendra, your proactive approach to seeking guidance demonstrates your commitment to securing your family's future. Rest assured, with careful planning and strategic financial management, we'll navigate through these challenges successfully.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

Ans: Taking the right health insurance coverage is crucial, especially given the rising medical costs. With your current family floater policy of Rs. 22.5 lakhs and considering your wife's family history, it’s essential to evaluate your needs. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you decide on additional coverage and whether a critical illness or cancer policy is necessary.

Current Health Insurance Coverage
Your existing policy has served you well, accumulating a bonus of Rs. 7.5 lakhs, increasing your coverage to Rs. 22.5 lakhs. This is a good base, especially since you’ve prioritized a public sector insurer due to concerns over private insurers.

Public sector insurers have a reputation for reliability and fewer complaints. Your choice is wise, given your specific concerns.

Assessing Your Coverage Needs
Health insurance needs can vary based on several factors, including age, family medical history, and lifestyle. Considering these factors, let's analyze your situation:

Age: At 49 and 44, you and your wife are approaching an age where medical issues become more common. Your daughter, at 16, still has a relatively low risk.

Medical History: Your wife’s family history of heart problems and cancer is a significant factor. This history increases the likelihood of needing substantial medical care in the future.

Rising Medical Costs: Medical inflation in India is high. Treatments for severe illnesses can easily exceed Rs. 20 lakhs, especially in metropolitan areas.

Given these points, it might be wise to consider additional coverage. A coverage of Rs. 30-50 lakhs could be more appropriate.

Evaluating the Need for Additional Coverage
To determine if you need more coverage, consider these aspects:

Hospitalization Costs: Major treatments and surgeries can be very expensive. Even with Rs. 22.5 lakhs coverage, a few hospitalizations could exhaust your policy limits quickly.

Treatment Advances: Medical technology is advancing, leading to higher costs for newer treatments and procedures.

Geographical Location: If you live in a metro city, medical costs are generally higher compared to smaller towns.

A top-up or super top-up policy could be a cost-effective way to increase your coverage without significantly increasing premiums. These policies kick in after a certain threshold is met, offering higher coverage at a lower cost.

Critical Illness and Cancer Policies
Given your wife's family history, a critical illness policy or a specific cancer policy could be beneficial. These policies provide a lump-sum payment on diagnosis of specific illnesses, which can be used for treatment, recovery, or even daily expenses.

Critical Illness Policy: Covers a range of severe illnesses like heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, and more. It provides financial support at a crucial time, helping to cover costs that may not be included in a regular health policy.

Cancer Policy: Specifically designed for cancer treatment. Cancer treatment can be prolonged and expensive. This policy ensures that financial constraints do not hinder the treatment process.

Benefits of Critical Illness Policies
Lump-Sum Payment: On diagnosis, you receive a lump-sum amount which can be used for any purpose, giving you flexibility.

Wide Coverage: Covers several major illnesses which can be financially draining if not insured.

Peace of Mind: Knowing you have coverage for major illnesses can reduce stress and allow you to focus on recovery.

Benefits of Cancer Policies
Specialized Coverage: Tailored specifically for cancer, ensuring comprehensive coverage for all stages of the disease.

Enhanced Support: Provides financial support for expensive treatments, ensuring quality care without worrying about costs.

Flexibility: The payout can be used for treatment or other related expenses, providing financial flexibility during tough times.

Premium Considerations
Health insurance premiums do rise with age and medical inflation. To manage premium costs while ensuring adequate coverage, consider the following strategies:

Top-Up Plans: As mentioned, these can provide high coverage at lower premiums compared to base policies.

Family Floater Plans: These can sometimes be more economical than individual plans, especially when covering multiple family members.

Regular Review: Periodically review and adjust your coverage to match your current needs and financial situation.

Practical Steps to Enhance Coverage
Assess Your Needs Regularly: Health needs change over time. Regularly assess your insurance coverage to ensure it aligns with your current and future needs.

Consider Top-Up Policies: If you find your current coverage inadequate, a top-up policy can provide additional coverage at a reasonable cost.

Evaluate Critical Illness and Cancer Policies: Given your wife's family history, these policies can provide financial security in case of serious illnesses.

Consult a Certified Financial Planner: They can provide personalized advice, ensuring your insurance strategy fits within your broader financial plan.


You’ve taken commendable steps to ensure your family's health and financial security. Your proactive approach to health insurance is admirable. It’s evident that you care deeply about your family's well-being, and you're making informed decisions to protect them.

Final Insights
Ensuring adequate health insurance coverage is crucial, especially with rising medical costs and potential health risks. Your current coverage of Rs. 22.5 lakhs is a good start, but considering additional coverage could provide more security.

A top-up policy could enhance your coverage cost-effectively. Given your wife's family history, a critical illness or cancer policy could offer additional peace of mind and financial support.

Health insurance is not just about covering hospital bills; it's about securing your financial future against unforeseen medical expenses. By carefully evaluating your needs and considering additional coverage options, you can ensure comprehensive protection for your family.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in