Choosing the right medical insurance policy for your family can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available in the market. One type of policy that is gaining popularity is the cashless mediclaim policy for family, which allows policyholders to receive medical treatment without having to pay for it out of pocket. This article will discuss some key factors to consider when choosing a cashless mediclaim policy for your family.
Advantages of Cashless Mediclaim Policy in India
Knowing that your loved ones are protected against medical emergencies can provide mental relief. Besides reducing the financial burden, cashless policies have the following benefits, which add to peace of mind.
Convenience
With a cashless mediclaim policy, you can receive medical treatment without having to arrange funds during hospitalhospitalizationd, the insurance company will directly settle the bills with the hospital, making the process more convenient. In addition, the documentation needed for cashless treatment is less than that required to settle reimbursement claims.
Superior Treatment
Most insurance companies have tie-ups with a vast network of high-quality hospitals across the country. This allows you to avail cashless treatment at any of the network hospitals. It can be especially beneficial in case of an emergency or if you are travelling.
Tax Savings
Cashless mediclaim policies are eligible for tax benefits as per Section 80D of the Income Tax Act, which can help to lower the policy cost. You can take a policy for yourself, your spouse, dependent children and parents.
Key Factors to Consider to Select the Best Cashless Mediclaim Policy for your Family
Firstly, you must assess the requirements and specifics of different family members, for example, their age profile, pre-existing illnesses, vulnerabilities, etc. Then, look for the best mediclaim company in India offering policies compatible with those needs. Further, you must evaluate the different options on the following parameters.
Coverage
Read the mediclaim policy details carefully and understand what is covered and what is not. Some policies may offer coverage for only certain types of procedures, while others may have a limit on the amount of coverage. Choosing a policy that provides comprehensive coverage for your family's needs is important.
Network
A cashless mediclaim policy is only helpful if you can use it at a hospital within the insurance company's network. Make sure to check the list of network hospitals before choosing a policy, and ensure that there are hospitals in your area that are covered.
Waiting Period
Consider the waiting period for pre-existing diseases when choosing a cashless mediclaim policy. Some policies may have a waiting period of up to 2-4 years for pre-existing diseases, during which time you will not be able to claim treatments related to those diseases. This can be a significant drawback, especially if a family member has a pre-existing condition that requires regular treatment.
Claim Process
Make sure to choose a policy that has a straightforward and easy claim process. This can save you a lot of time and effort in case you need to file a claim. Also, it is advisable to check the claim settlement ratio of the insurance company, which indicates the number of claims that have been successfully settled by the company.
Cost
Make sure to compare the premium amounts of different policies and choose one that fits within your budget. You can use the online mediclaim premium calculator for this purpose. However, do not compromise on coverage just to save on premiums. It is vital to have a balance between coverage and premium.
Conclusion
Choosing the right cashless mediclaim and health insurance policy for your family is an important decision. Thorough research will ensure that you are not caught off guard in case of a claim. By considering the above factors, you can make an informed decision and ensure that your family is protected in case of any medical emergencies. You can also check with your employer if they provide coverage for you and your family under a group mediclaim policy.