Home > Money > Question
Need Expert Advice?Our Gurus Can Help
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |959 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 16, 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
Asked by Anonymous - Apr 04, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money

Hi I want a health insurance for my family but unable to decide which one to choose. What are things need to know before taking Health insurance. I want total cashless insurance. I have heard some insurance company do not cover all in claim. How to know about that. Thankyou in advance

Ans: key things to consider before choosing a family health insurance plan with cashless coverage:

Family Coverage:

Member inclusions: Ensure the plan covers all your immediate family members (spouse, dependent children, and potentially parents depending on the plan).
Sum Insured: Choose a sufficient sum insured per person considering potential medical inflation and future healthcare costs. Opt for a joint sum insured or individual sum insured per family member based on your needs.
Cashless Network Hospitals:

Network breadth: Research the insurance company's network hospitals in your area. Accessibility and quality of hospitals within the network are crucial factors.
Cashless claim settlement ratio: Check the company's cashless claim settlement ratio, indicating the percentage of cashless claims approved. A higher ratio indicates smoother claim processing.
Policy Coverage:

Hospitalization expenses: Ensure the plan covers hospitalization bills, including room rent, surgeon fees, medications, and other related costs.
Pre-existing conditions: Look for a plan that covers pre-existing conditions if any family member has one. However, there might be waiting periods for coverage.
Daycare expenses: Some plans offer coverage for daycare expenses incurred during hospitalization.
Co-pay/Deductible: Some plans involve co-pays (fixed amount paid for specific services) or deductibles (amount you pay before insurance kicks in). Understand these clauses and choose a plan with terms that suit you.
Claim Settlement Process:

Claim settlement turnaround time: Research the average time the insurance company takes to settle claims.
Claim intimation process: Understand the claim intimation procedure and required documentation to ensure a smooth process.
Company Reputation:

Financial stability: Choose a health insurance company with a strong financial track record for claim settlements.
Customer service: Look for a company known for good customer service, especially regarding claim processing assistance.
Ways to Research Plans & Claim Coverage:

Company Websites: Most insurance companies have detailed information about their health insurance plans on their websites.
Insurance Comparison Websites: Websites like Policybazaar (https://www.policybazaar.com/), CompareRaja (https://health-plan-compare.com/), or Fincare (https://www.insurancedekho.com/health-insurance/news/religare-health-insurance-partners-with-fincare-small-finance-bank-7) allow plan comparisons and provide valuable insights.
Insurance Agents: A licensed insurance agent can help you compare plans, understand exclusions, and choose the one that best suits your family's needs.
Understanding Exclusions:

Most health insurance plans have exclusions, which are medical expenses the plan doesn't cover. Here's how to learn about them:

Policy Wording: Read the policy wording carefully, focusing on the exclusions section. This will clearly outline what isn't covered by the plan.
Speak to the Insurance Provider: Contact the insurance company directly and ask about any exclusions related to specific procedures or pre-existing conditions.
Choosing the Right Plan:

Don't just focus on premiums: While cost is important, prioritize comprehensive coverage over just the lowest premium.
Get quotes from multiple companies: Compare quotes from different providers to find a plan that offers the best value for your needs.
Ask questions: Don't hesitate to ask questions and clarify any doubts you have about the plan details or claim settlement process.
By considering these factors and thoroughly researching your options, you can choose a family health insurance plan with cashless coverage that provides peace of mind and financial protection for your loved ones.
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.
Money

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |959 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 23, 2024

Listen
Money
I am 32 years old male, working in a government organisation (institute). Where i get free health check-up, medicines and consultation in our institute dispensary. If anything they cannot cure then dispensary will give referral to other hospitals in the city (expenses borne by our organisation) for health related issues and get treatment at CGHS rates for all health issues. After retirement i will get a CGHS card if we go to other hospitals without referral still I will get reimbursement at CGHS rates. Now please suggest me whether I should buy a health insurance apart from this? I already have a HDFC ergo optima restore for 5 lakh sum assured to cover my family (wife, child and myself) which i did not use so far in 4 years and feel it's waste. Yearly I pay 24k for this hdfc health insurance. Please clarify. It's premium is increasing @10% every year.
Ans: Given your existing health benefits from your government organisation and the HDFC Ergo health insurance you already hold, adding another health insurance might seem redundant at this point. The CGHS benefits you'll receive post-retirement also offer substantial coverage. However, consider these factors:

Cost Analysis: Evaluate the total premium paid for the HDFC Ergo policy against the benefits received. If you find it's not cost-effective, reconsider its value.
Future Needs: As you age, healthcare costs tend to rise. With the HDFC Ergo premium increasing at 10% annually, assess if it remains affordable in the long run.
Coverage Gaps: Identify any specific healthcare needs or treatments not covered by your current policies. If there are significant gaps, you might consider supplemental insurance.
Savings Alternative: Instead of buying another policy, you could divert the premium amount to a separate health savings account or invest it for future medical expenses.
In conclusion, while your current coverage seems comprehensive, review its cost-effectiveness and your future healthcare needs. Balancing affordability with adequate coverage is key to making an informed decision.
(more)
Latest Questions
Archana

Archana Deshpande  |24 Answers  |Ask -

Image Coach, Soft Skills Trainer - Answered on Apr 30, 2024

Listen
Career
Dear Guru, I work in the technology space, and as with most careers, it is challenging and stressful. I work long hours (10-12hrs on avg). My problem is that I get disturbed sleep and am unable to get work related thoughts out of my mind wherein I even dream about solutions to work problems. I am afraid this is going to hurt my health and burn me out soon. Please advise on how I can detach from work to get a refreshing sleep.
Ans: Dear Bhawik!!

Pat yourself on the back for being a committed employee. The problems you have stated happen to most people who give their 100% to their work. Since you already know what it is to be 100% at work, it is time for you to give your 100% at home and to yourself.
You need to mentally detach yourself from work the moment you step out of the office building.
How will you do this? Adopt the following-
1. before leaving the office list out all the activities for tomorrow , prioritise them and mentally commit to them as tasks for tomorrow.
2. as soon as you exit the office building take three deep breaths , inhale and exhale deeply - this is called a transitioning breath which helps you transition from activity to another
3 establish rituals like listening to music( which you love) the moment you leave the building
4. if your transit form office to home takes some time, then practice being in the moment by looking around - the people, the trees, the sky, let all your senses be involved- use your eyes to see, nose to smell, ears to hear the sounds around, feel the breeze in your hair/ on your skin. This makes you feel 100% alive. Stay in the moment.
5. when you reach home, greet your loved ones with a smile
6. spend a little time doing nothing , just be
7. enjoy your meal mindfully
8.take a small walk after your meal
9.spend min 10 mins doing something that brings you joy, for me it is reading a book, what is it for you?
10.go for a guided "Yog Nidra" before sleeping.

Do not intellectualize these suggestions. Just do them. They are tried and tested methods for a proper demarcation between work and home life.
Best wishes for a life well lived and restful sleep..
(more)
Sunil

Sunil Lala  |178 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Apr 29, 2024

Shekhar

Shekhar Kumar  |108 Answers  |Ask -

Leadership, HR Expert - Answered on Apr 29, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 25, 2024Hindi
Listen
Career
Hi, i have completed my masters in food technology and want to work as freelancers as a auditor in food industry could you guide how to go about doing.
Ans: Transitioning to freelance work as a food industry auditor can offer you flexibility and autonomy in your career. Evaluate your qualifications, experience, and skills in food technology, quality assurance, and auditing. Identify areas where you have expertise and experience that are valuable to potential clients in the food industry. Familiarize yourself with the requirements and standards for food auditing, including regulatory requirements, industry standards (such as ISO 22000, HACCP), and customer specifications. Understand the auditing process, documentation requirements, and audit protocols. Consider obtaining relevant certifications or training in food safety auditing, such as Certified Food Safety Auditor (CFSA), Lead Auditor Training, or other accredited programs. These credentials can enhance your credibility and qualifications as a freelancer. Network with professionals in the food industry, including food manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, and regulatory agencies. Attend industry conferences, seminars, and networking events to connect with potential clients and collaborators. Determine the specific services you will offer as a food industry auditor, such as food safety audits, quality management system audits, regulatory compliance assessments, or supplier audits. Identify your target market, including food manufacturers, processors, retailers, or food service providers. Develop a professional brand identity for your freelance auditing services, including a business name, logo, website, and marketing materials. Highlight your expertise, qualifications, and unique value proposition to attract potential clients. Determine your pricing structure based on factors such as the complexity of audits, scope of services, and industry standards. Establish clear policies regarding payment terms, project timelines, and confidentiality agreements to protect both your interests and those of your clients. Promote your freelance auditing services through online channels, social media platforms, industry forums, and professional associations. Create content related to food safety, quality assurance, and auditing best practices to showcase your expertise and attract potential clients. Cultivate relationships with potential clients by offering value-added services, such as training, consulting, or ongoing support. Build trust and credibility through transparent communication, professional conduct, and delivering high-quality audit reports and recommendations. Establish systems and processes for managing your freelance business, including client communication, project management, invoicing, and record-keeping. Prioritize time management and organization to balance your freelance work effectively. 

Keep learning, networking, and refining your approach to meet the needs of your clients and achieve your professional goals as a freelancer.
(more)
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |959 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 29, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 29, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
I retired earlier now at 53. Invested 7L in ELSS and using 60L on short term equity trading (with monthly average gain 2L) and having own apartment home worth 40L. Having dependent widowed mother, wife with 13 yrs old daughter. Intended to raise daughter as doctor. Please suggest better investment options.
Ans: Congratulations on your early retirement! It sounds like you've made some good initial decisions, but there's definitely room for improvement to secure your family's future, especially considering your dependents. Here's how you can optimize your investments:

Reduce Risk in Short-Term Equity Trading:

While a ?2 lakh monthly gain from short-term trading sounds impressive, it's a very risky strategy. The market can be volatile, and these gains may not be sustainable. Consider allocating a much smaller portion (maybe 10-20%) to short-term trading and focus on more stable options for the majority of your investable assets (?60 lakh currently in trading).
Focus on Long-Term Growth and Stability:

Increase Investment in ELSS: ?7 lakh is a good start, but for your daughter's education and your retirement needs, you'll likely need a much larger corpus. Consider increasing your SIP amount in ELSS or similar diversified equity mutual funds with a long-term horizon (10+ years).
Explore Debt Options for Regular Income:

You mentioned having a dependent mother and daughter's education to plan for. Consider investing a portion (maybe 20-30%) of your investable amount in safer debt options like Public Provident Fund (PPF), Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS) for your mother (if she's above 60), or fixed deposits to generate a regular income stream.
Plan for Daughter's Education:

Doctorate studies can be expensive. Start an SIP in a dedicated child education plan or invest in aggressive equity funds specifically for this goal. Talk to a Certfied Financial Planner for personalized recommendations based on the estimated cost of medical education.
Utilize Your Apartment:

While your apartment fulfills your housing needs, consider if it could generate additional income. Explore options like renting a room if feasible.
Seek Professional Guidance:

Given your multiple financial goals and risk tolerance, consulting a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can be highly beneficial. They can create a personalized investment plan considering your risk appetite, time horizon, and financial goals.
(more)
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

Close  

You haven't logged in yet. To ask a question, Please Log in below
Login

A verification OTP will be sent to this
Mobile Number / Email

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to

Resend OTP in120seconds

Dear User, You have not registered yet. Please register by filling the fields below to get expert answers from our Gurus
Sign up

By signing up, you agree to our
Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy

Already have an account?

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to Mobile

Resend OTP in120seconds

x