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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6240 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 24, 2024

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
LAKSHMINARAYANAN Question by LAKSHMINARAYANAN on Jul 15, 2024Hindi
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SIR/MADAM, I AM INTERESTED IN TAKING A HEALTH INSURANCE POLICY FOR MY ELDER BROTHER WHO IS 82 YEAR OLD INDIAN SENIOR CITIZEN. HE HAD CAD IN 2016 AND ANGIO PLASTY DONE. HE HAS ELEVATED CREATINE AND UREA LEVEL . HE TAKES REGULAR MDICINES. CAN I TAKE A HEALTH INSURANCE POLICY IF SO WHICH INSURER ? PLEASE HELP

Ans: Health Insurance for Senior Citizens with Pre-existing Conditions

1. Availability of Health Insurance for Senior Citizens:

Coverage Challenges:

Health insurance for senior citizens, especially those with pre-existing conditions, can be challenging. Most insurers have strict underwriting guidelines for elderly applicants.
Pre-existing Conditions:

Existing conditions like CAD, elevated creatinine, and urea levels often lead to higher premiums or exclusions.
Policy Options:

Some insurers offer policies for senior citizens but with specific terms related to pre-existing conditions.
2. Insurer Considerations:

Age Limits:

Choose insurers that cater to elderly individuals. Many insurers have age limits that might exclude those above 70-75 years.
Pre-existing Conditions Coverage:

Look for insurers who provide coverage for pre-existing conditions after a certain waiting period.
Hospital Network:

Ensure the insurer has a broad network of hospitals, especially those known for treating cardiac conditions and renal issues.
Cashless Facility:

Verify if the insurer offers cashless treatment in a wide range of hospitals.
Premiums and Terms:

Compare premiums, policy terms, and sub-limits. Policies with higher premiums often offer better coverage for pre-existing conditions.
3. Recommended Insurers:

Leading Insurers:

Reputable insurance companies in India like Star Health, Max Bupa, and HDFC ERGO often provide policies for senior citizens.
Specialised Plans:

Some insurers offer specific plans designed for senior citizens, covering various medical conditions with benefits like no claim bonus and coverage for pre-existing conditions.
4. Steps to Take:

Consult Insurers:

Contact multiple insurers to discuss policy options based on your brother's health conditions.
Medical Examination:

Some insurers may require a medical examination. Ensure all relevant health information is disclosed.
Professional Help:

Consult a Certified Financial Planner or insurance consultant to get the best policy recommendation and to navigate the options available.
Policy Review:

Carefully review policy documents and terms before purchasing. Ensure that all pre-existing conditions and future medical needs are covered.
Final Insights

Securing health insurance for an 82-year-old with pre-existing conditions requires careful consideration. Look for insurers with policies catering to senior citizens and those that cover pre-existing conditions after a waiting period. Leading insurers like Star Health, Max Bupa, and HDFC ERGO might offer suitable options. Consulting a Certified Financial Planner can provide personalized assistance and ensure that you choose the best policy for your brother's needs.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
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Sanjib

Sanjib Jha  | Answer  |Ask -

Insurance Expert - Answered on Jun 21, 2022

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I am 83 and hale and hearty. My only passion is TRAVEL -- National and International. I have a daily routine to go for morning/evening walks along with light exercises at home. At the age of 76, I had IMPLANTATION of PACEMAKER and thereafter CABG. Health Insurance: No insurance company offers me a comprehensive Health policy with ADDS ON. I am offered HEART POLICY without ADDS ON like day care treatment, but EXCLUDING PACEMAKER. For this, their Premium is Rs.74000.00. I have no problem whatsoever as far as my Heart and Pacemaker, then why the insurance company can't include day care treatment. It's quite shocking that in our country, Health insurance is HARD CORE BUSINESS and IRDA and Govt. of India is aware of the happenings in Healthcare Insurance but keep their eyes closed. What a Pity!
Ans: Hi Ashok, it is great to know that you are maintaining a healthy lifestyle and living your life to the fullest. The concern raised by you is legit but the solution to it is simple – Buy the right kind of health insurance policies at an early age. When one purchases health insurance at an early age, the premiums they pay will be lower because their pre-existing diseases will be lesser and will not be considered a high-risk profile.

As our age increases, the chances of health deterioration increase which makes the premiums higher and in some cases a lot of diseases and ailments come with a longer waiting period and PED exclusion lists. During the time of issuance, each insurer analysis the risk via proposal form, medical reports and take decisions accordingly.

Age is an important factor in risk determination by the insurers and considers old age applicants as very high-risk profiles and hence doesn’t provide health policy. Few of the heart policies as said will provide coverage but will exclude the PEDs (pre-existing diseases).

This is why the Govt. of India, IRDAI, Insurers and broking companies like Coverfox Insurance are trying to educate the masses to purchase health insurance policies at a younger age and are constantly trying to inform people of the benefits of Health Insurance and how to choose the correct plan for oneself.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6240 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 20, 2024

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Im 62 year old and retired person. I am looking for health insurance policy for me and my wife who is 52 year old and housewife. I am suffering from high BP, Cervical and Lumber spondylitis, knee osteoarthritis, IBS and taking medicines for last 10-12 years. My wife has hypothyroidism, spondylitis and diabetes Please suggest better health insurance policy. Also suggest whether individual or family policy will be better Regards
Ans: I understand you're looking for a good health insurance plan for you and your wife. That's a smart decision, especially considering your health conditions. Let's break it down to help you choose the best option:

Understanding Pre-existing Conditions:

Your existing health conditions (BP, spondylitis, etc.) are called pre-existing conditions. These might affect your policy options and premiums.
Individual vs. Family Plan:

Family plan: Covers you and your wife together under one plan. It can be cheaper, but coverage limits get shared.
Individual plans: Separate plans for each of you. More flexibility, but might cost slightly more overall.
Considering Your Needs:

Pre-existing condition coverage: Look for plans that cover pre-existing conditions after a waiting period (if any).
Hospitalization coverage: Choose a plan with sufficient coverage for hospitalization expenses.
Medicines: Check if the plan covers medicines you take regularly.
Finding the Right Plan:

Talk to a CFP professional: A Certified Financial Planner can assess your needs and recommend suitable plans from different insurers.
Compare plans online: Many insurance companies offer online plan comparisons. Look for plans that cover pre-existing conditions and have good network hospitals in your area.
Here's a quick tip: Since your wife is younger and has a different health profile, individual plans might be better. This allows you to get customized coverage based on your specific needs.

Remember: Don't hesitate to ask questions! Choosing the right health insurance is important, and a CFP professional can guide you through the process.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6240 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 11, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 24, 2024Hindi
Money
Hello sir, my age is 40 yrs currently unmarried. Recently, I had to undergo a renal transplant surgery since I was suffering from AKD (Acute Kidney Disorder) in Bangalore. I was on dialysis for last one and half yrs and moved to bangalore just for the surgery. It went well and now I am on the road to recovery.We had a health insurance policy by manipal cigna company (medi-assist) which ensured that every expenses was met through reimbursement like dialysis expenses, OPD chgs, pharmacy bills etc. We were satisfied with the services of the health insurance provider. My question here is that can I take any more health insurance policy now (may be from a different company) for my future medical expenses which might occur in future (considering I am pretty young right now and single too). What premium do I need to pay for that? Will it be increased premium or the same normal premium. I might not use the health cover for my renal disease now but as a safeguard for the future diseases which may come up.(considering I will get married and have a family too in future). Will my kidney surgery have any impact on the future health cover or not? Kindly advise.
Ans: I'm glad to hear your surgery went well, and you're on the road to recovery. Considering your situation, it’s important to secure your health insurance needs for the future. Let’s break down your questions and concerns regarding taking an additional health insurance policy.

Can You Take Another Health Insurance Policy?
Yes, you can take another health insurance policy from a different company. However, your recent medical history, including the renal transplant surgery, will impact your new policy's terms and premiums.

Impact of Renal Transplant on New Policy
Pre-Existing Conditions: Your kidney surgery will be considered a pre-existing condition. Most insurers have a waiting period for covering pre-existing conditions, ranging from two to four years. It’s crucial to check the specifics with any new insurer.

Medical Underwriting: Given your recent medical history, the insurer may require detailed medical underwriting. They may request your medical records and possibly a medical examination to assess your current health status.

Premium Considerations
Increased Premiums: Due to your pre-existing condition, new health insurance policies are likely to come with increased premiums. The exact amount will depend on the insurer's assessment of your health risk.

Loading Charges: Some insurers might add a loading charge to your premium, which is an additional cost to cover the higher risk associated with your medical history.

Types of Policies to Consider
Individual Health Plans: These provide coverage for a single person. Given your situation, ensure the plan offers extensive coverage, including post-operative care and critical illness coverage.

Family Floater Plans: These plans cover multiple family members under a single sum insured. They might be a good option if you plan to get married and start a family in the near future.

Critical Illness Plans: These plans provide a lump sum amount upon diagnosis of specified critical illnesses, including kidney-related issues. It can be a supplementary policy to your primary health insurance.

Steps to Take
Research and Compare: Compare policies from different insurers. Look for policies with comprehensive coverage and a reasonable waiting period for pre-existing conditions.

Consult Insurers: Speak directly with insurance representatives. Explain your medical history and get clear information on how it will affect your premiums and coverage.

Read Policy Documents: Carefully read the policy documents, especially the sections on pre-existing conditions, waiting periods, exclusions, and premium loading.

Consider Riders: Look for riders or add-ons that can enhance your coverage, such as critical illness riders, hospital cash, and personal accident covers.

Consulting a Certified Financial Planner
Given the complexities of your medical history and future health needs, consulting with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can be very beneficial. A CFP can help you understand the nuances of different policies, assess your long-term financial needs, and recommend the best health insurance options tailored to your situation.


You’ve shown great foresight in considering additional health insurance despite your recent surgery. Ensuring your future medical needs are covered demonstrates a strong commitment to your long-term well-being. Your proactive approach to securing your health is commendable and shows a responsible attitude towards managing potential future risks.

Final Insights
Securing an additional health insurance policy is a wise move, especially considering your recent medical history and future plans. While premiums might be higher due to your pre-existing condition, thorough research and consulting with professionals can help you find the best policy for your needs. Remember to compare different plans, understand the terms, and choose a policy that offers comprehensive coverage and aligns with your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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