Bengaluru, formerly known as Bangalore, is India’s technology and startup hub. The city is home to major IT companies, startups, educational institutes, and industries, which has led to many young professionals and families moving to the city for work.

However, the downsides are rising pollution, chaotic traffic, stress, and adopting unhealthy lifestyles. This has resulted in an increase in lifestyle diseases like diabetes, hypertension, heart problems, etc., among the city’s population. Adding to this is the rising cost of quality healthcare and hospitalisation expenses.

Therefore, having a good health insurance policy is crucial for Bengaluru residents. But finding adequate coverage is challenging, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions. Read on to understand comprehensive health insurance for pre-existing conditions in Bangalore covering pre-existing diseases.

Understanding Pre-Existing Conditions

Pre-existing conditions refer to any injury, disability or illness that an individual already has before applying for a health insurance policy. Some examples are:

• Diabetes, thyroid disorders, hypertension etc.

• Heart diseases like arrhythmia, congenital conditions, etc.

• Kidney disorders, liver cirrhosis, renal failures, etc.

• Cancer, tumours, cysts, etc.

• Gastric ulcers, hernia, sinusitis etc.

• Joint disorders like arthritis, gout, etc.

• Asthma, bronchitis, COPD, sleep apnea etc.

Before the policy start date, any treatment or diagnosis for these conditions would be classified as pre-existing.

Importance of Declaring Pre-Existing Conditions

It is essential to disclose pre-existing conditions when applying for health insurance in Bangalore. This is important for the following reasons:

• Allows insurers to make an informed decision and assess risks accurately.

• Premiums can be calculated based on disclosure of medical history.

• It helps determine any special waiting periods that may apply for pre-existing diseases.

• Provides clarity on coverage for specific conditions based on insurer guidelines.

• Ensures future claims are not rejected on grounds of non-disclosure.

• It makes switching policies easier when the previous history is declared upfront.

• Prevents disputes at the time of claim settlement through upfront transparency.

Finding the Best Health Insurance in Bengaluru

Here are some tips for finding the best health insurance policy in Bangalore:

1.   Assess Your Needs

Take some time to consider your current health conditions, your family’s medical history, and the health risks you may face living in a large city like Bangalore. This will give you a good idea of the coverage you need. Set a target for how much coverage you need for hospitalisation and critical illnesses.

2.   Set a Budget

Health premiums can vary quite a bit across different policies. Before comparing various plans, decide on a monthly or annual budget that you can realistically set aside for health insurance. This will allow you to filter too expensive plans and focus on ones that provide the best coverage within your budget.

3.   Focus on Comprehensive Coverage

Look for health plans that provide extensive coverage rather than basic coverage. Opt for higher limits on coverage for hospitalisation costs, ICU and critical care, ambulance transportation, and reimbursable expenses. Higher coverage means you get more financial protection when making a substantial claim.

4.   Verify Hospital Network

One key factor impacting the claims process is the insurer’s network of hospitals. Some insurers may not have tie-ups with top hospitals in Bangalore. Before you buy the policy, check if your preferred hospitals are empanelled or partnered with the insurance provider.

5.   Check Exclusions

While comparing policies, go through the fine print of exclusions carefully. Understanding exclusions is important so there are no surprises when you file a claim. This allows you to know what coverage gaps exist in your policy.

6.   Evaluate Waiting Periods

Some health plans apply initial waiting periods of 1-3 years to cover pre-existing illnesses. If you or your family members are currently managing any illness, pick an insurer like ACKO with no waiting period for enhanced coverage.

7.   Seek Zero Deduction Plans

Certain health plans offer to waive off deductions applicable during claims, thereby reducing your out-of-pocket payment burden. Such zero deduction plans or 100% reimbursement plans can provide much-needed financial relief if you make a substantial claim.

8.   Research Extensively

Take your time buying the first plan you come across. Read up on insurance forums and expert review sites to better understand which companies offer the best services and comprehensive plan benefits in Bangalore.

Conclusion

Purchasing health insurance in a city like Bangalore is necessary today to safeguard oneself from medical inflation and unexpected hospitalisation bills. However, finding adequate coverage for pre-existing illnesses can be challenging. Doing diligent research and comparing insurer offerings on various parameters can help identify plans that specifically cater to your needs.

Opting for high-sum insured options from insurers like ACKO that offer health insurance for pre-existing conditions is critical to getting suitable coverage. This ensures you and your family remain financially protected in medical emergencies.