GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

Recent studies indicated a 0.4% penetration rate of health insurance in India in 2022. The true gravity of the situation is not felt when viewed in isolation but when compared to the 4.1% penetration rate in the US. Experts pin this lag on inaccessible insurance products and a general lack of awareness in the country.

Misinformation is undoubtedly the most significant concern that the insurance industry faces. An excellent example of misconceptions leading to losing out on benefits is unawareness regarding the restoration benefit offered under health insurance in India. If you have ever wondered about what happens when you need additional coverage after raising a claim and exhausting the insured sum within the policy period, here are all your answers about the restoration benefit, its advantages, and the types.

What is the restoration benefit?

A restoration benefit may be the most significant inbuilt feature insurers offer when purchasing the best health insurance policy in India. It is a benefit that is of greater significance in the case of family floater policies.

According to widespread misinformation, most policyholders believe they can no longer raise a claim in case of a second instance of hospitalisation against the same policy during the policy period. However, if your health insurance provides restoration benefits, you are insured for a greater sum than the insurance policy states. Your best health insurance in India offers a refill benefit, allowing you to claim up to 100% of the insured sum even after it is exhausted.

And, if your policy does not provide this feature, you can purchase a restoration benefit add-on to act as a security net in case of multiple occurrences of the event you are insured against during the policy tenure.

Types of restoration benefit.

1. Partial exhaustion:
As the name suggests, upon partial exhaustion of the insured sum, the restoration feature comes into play, renewing the insured sum to the maximum amount stated in the policy. If you have to purchase the add-on feature, it is preferred to have this type of restoration benefit.

2. Complete exhaustion:
The restoration feature only activates upon using the entire insured sum. Commonly, health insurance providers offer this type of benefit to policyholders since it minimises their exposure to risk by making restoration only applicable after the whole insured sum is exhausted.

Critical attributes of restoration benefit.

While the feature offers excellent benefits, you must not blindly purchase it or rely upon it without being aware of some of its essential characteristics:

1. The restored insured sum is not eligible for utilisation in the renewed policy period, irrespective of whether or not it is used in the relevant period.

2. Depending on your policy’s fine print, the restored amount may be up to 100-150% of the insured sum, depending on the cause for raising a claim.

3. The benefit does not apply to the first claim during the policy period but becomes applicable from the second claim onwards.

4. In the case of individual or family floater plans, multiple policyholders cannot enjoy the benefit of the restored insured sum simultaneously.

5. While it provides a backup in emergencies, it does not suffice as a replacement for increasing the insured sum in case of critical diseases or high-risk family members covered under the policy.

While purchasing the best health insurance policy in India, it is essential to check if the policy offers restoration benefits within the policy framework. Although it may not be a substitute for the need to increase your insured sum in your individual or family floater plan, it certainly provides a backup option to rely on in case of emergencies to cover insurance claims.

Click HERE to buy the best health insurance policy in India.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

Back pain is a common condition among older adults and can significantly impact their quality of life. Chronic back pain can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks and participate in physical activities, leading to a sedentary lifestyle and other health problems. While there are several treatment options for back pain, such as medications and physical therapy, stretching is an effective and natural way to manage and prevent back pain.

As we age, we may experience back pain for various reasons, such as poor posture, lack of physical activity, arthritis, or injuries. One of the most systematic and effective ways to manage and prevent back pain is by regularly stretching the back muscles. Here are a few top back pain stretches for older adults to improve mobility. Practice these poses and stretches daily to stay on top of your health. Let's get started.

1. Child's pose stretch
The child's pose is a gentle stretch that can relieve tension in the lower back. To perform this stretch, firstly, kneel on the floor. Your toes should touch, and your knees should be hip-width apart. Lower your hips onto your heels and stretch your arms out before you. Hold this stretch for 30 seconds to 1 minute and breathe deeply.

Benefits:
● Removes tension in the lower back and hips
● Calms the mind
● Reduces stress and anxiety
● It improves digestion and helps with constipation

2. Cat-Cow stretch
The cat-cow stretch targets the upper and lower back muscles, promoting flexibility and mobility. Start on your hands and knees. Your hands should be shoulder-width apart and your knees hip-width apart. Arch your back towards the ceiling, tucking your chin to your chest (cat pose). Then, lower your back towards the floor and lift your head and tailbone towards the direction of the ceiling. This is the cow pose. Alternate between the two postures for 1-2 minutes.

Benefits:
● Increases flexibility and mobility of the spine
● Relieves tension in the neck and shoulders
● Improves posture
● Revitalises the organs in the abdomen, thus improving digestion

3. Seated forward bend
The seated forward bend is an excellent stretch for the hamstrings and lower back muscles. Sit on the floor. Your legs should be straight before you. Next, hinge forward from your hips, reaching towards your toes. Hold this stretch for 30 seconds to 1 minute, then slowly return to a seated position.

Benefits:
● Stretches hamstring and lower back muscles
● It helps with anxiety and stress
● Relieves tension in the neck and shoulders

4. Knee-to-chest stretch
The knee-to-chest stretch targets the muscles in the lower back and hips. Lie on your back. Your knees should be bent. Along with this, your feet are supposed to be flat on the floor. Pull one knee towards your chest using your hands. Hold in this position for twenty seconds to half a minute. Release. Next, you must repeat the same procedure with your other leg to benefit from this posture.

Benefits:
● Stretches the lower back and hips muscles
● Improves posture
● Aids in digestion
● Improves flexibility in the knee and hips
● Eradicates tension and pain in the lower back

If you're over 55, incorporating stretching exercises into your daily routine can significantly reduce back pain and improve mobility. The stretches mentioned in this blog effectively reduce stiffness and promote flexibility. Do not assume things when it comes to your health. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional before starting any exercise regimen, particularly if you have an existing medical condition.

Furthermore, as older adults are more susceptible to health issues, it is crucial to have the best health insurance in India for parents. Good health insurance can provide financial security and access to quality healthcare services essential for older adults. By caring for your health, you can enjoy your golden years with peace of mind and maintain an active lifestyle.

Click HERE to learn more about the benefits of purchasing the best health insurance in India for parents.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

Most investments are made to reap future benefits or protect yourself from contingent liabilities that may arise. Buying health insurance is one investment you must make to protect yourself financially in the present times. Even though several online health insurance companies deliver their services to your doorstep, buying health insurance has never been simpler. Surprisingly, about 30% of Indian households still do not have any health insurance coverage.

Experts believe that mass misinformation, complex policy wording, and the rising cost of premiums are to blame for the low figures. This requires the intervention of online health insurance companies to clarify and spread awareness among the public.

However, if the increasing cost of health insurance makes you think before purchasing or renewing your policy, read on to learn about the factors influencing the premium rates and whether you can manage them.

1. Inflation:
Unless you have been living under a rock, there is no way you could have missed out on the discussions regarding the skyrocketing rates of medical inflation globally.
The increased prices of healthcare services and consumables and an imbalance in demand and supply of equipment and professionals are also responsible for the rising costs of hospitalisation. This has directly increased premiums to minimise the risk online health insurance companies bear. But this trend is unlikely to settle, making premiums inevitably pricier each year.

2. Claim history:
Suppose you have raised frequent claims over the years. In that case, you are classified as a high-risk policyholder since renewing your policy will likely result in more significant payouts for the insurer. However, this does not apply to all online health insurance companies. Ensure you check the fine print of alternative policies and choose one that does not include a clause of increasing your premium with each claim you raise.

3. Age:
With age, one’s immunity weakens, making one susceptible to illnesses. Older people are at greater risk of diseases and hospitalisation, making them high-risk clients for health insurance companies, which is why they are charged higher premiums. Paying a higher premium means better coverage and a greater insured sum. Do not compromise on protecting your future by skimping on the premium, and ensure your policy provides comprehensive coverage against various illnesses and a sizable insured sum.

4. Policyholder’s medical history:
Online health insurance companies ask for a complete medical record of potential policyholders to assess the risk of insuring them. A health check-up before approving your policy informs them of general well-being and any pre-existing conditions that may lead to frequent hospitalisation, making you a high-risk client.

5. Add-on covers:
Depending on your age and medical history, you may purchase add-on covers that protect you against specific conditions or events. While they make your policy more comprehensive, they inevitably make it pricier.
However, it is best not to compromise your health needs and skimp on your health insurance coverage. Ensure you check your policy wording to purchase an add-on only when necessary.

Insurance buyers are advised to be alert and responsible while investing in health insurance. The rising premium is a concern, but a little alertness and awareness today can help in the long run. Here are a few key takeaways for managing rising health insurance premiums in India:

• Choose a comprehensive health insurance plan.

• Compare policies and opt for the best online insurance companies with the required features.

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle and use cashless facilities.

• Review coverage annually and look for discounts and special offers.

• Seek advice from a financial advisor.

Health insurance is an essential investment for your physical and financial well-being. While renewals may get pricier annually, a prudent policyholder can always get the most significant value from his premium payment by doing due diligence. Ensure that you initiate the policy renewal process before it is slated to lapse. Review the offerings of multiple online health insurance companies before choosing to renew or porting it.

Click HERE to buy the best health insurance plan with an attractive premium.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

Insurance is an umbrella that protects you from the financial burden resulting in the aftermath of the event you are insured against. In recent times, the insurance penetration rate in India has significantly grown with the increasing base of new policyholders. This may be attributed to raising awareness, the increased purchasing power which has resulted in the improved ability to purchase policies, and the steadily growing inflation rates that increase the burden of such financial stress.

Over the years, motor insurance has become a popularised offering by insurance companies. If you are looking for the best two wheeler insurance in India, there are multiple options with various features and price ranges. However, it all boils down to the insurance claim settlement procedure. If the claim settlement is fair and speedy, it is the natural choice for consumers. It is also the most confusing part of insurance that you must consider before purchasing two-wheeler insurance.

How many times can you file a claim annually? What are the required documents? Read on to find the answers to questions similar to these related to two-wheeler insurance claims.

Can you file for a biannual two-wheeler insurance claim?

Yes! The paperwork does not restrict policyholders to specific maximum claims you can file annually. Therefore, you may apply for two or more claims in the same year.

Effect of raising multiple claims within the year.

While there are no restrictions on claim filing, it may not be a good idea to do so frequently for the reasons mentioned below:

1. No claim bonus:
This is an incentive provided by the insurer to the policyholder at the time of renewal in case no claim has been filed within the insured period. In case of multiple claims in the year, the discount rate, usually between 20-50%, is lost with each claim. Therefore, by making a claim, or multiple ones, the insured loses the benefit of a discount at the time of renewal.

2. Increased premiums:
Since the insured person files multiple claims, they are seen as a greater liability than an asset to the insurance company. Therefore, they charge a greater premium from the person when compared to other insured parties that file fewer or no claims at all.

3. Inadequate compensations:
In case of minor damages and losses, it may be best to avoid filing a claim. Deductible items are removed from the repairs bill to compute the allowed damages. If such an amount is minor, we recommend not filing a claim since the compensation will be inadequate and only result in the loss of the no-claim benefit.

4. Limitations on zero depreciation insurance add-on:
This is an add-on facility to a comprehensive two wheeler insurance policy that restricts the number of claims you may file.

Necessary documents to file a claim.

Irrespective of the result of your search for the best two wheeler insurance in India, most insurance companies ask for the following documents for filing a claim:

● Claim form

● Two-wheeler registration

● Tax receipt

● Owner’s driver’s licence

● Insurance proof

● Copy of FIR

With insurance companies striving to make claim filing simpler than before, it may seem logical to claim compensation for even the most minor damages. However, even with the best two wheeler insurance in India and requisite add-ons, that is not the case. You must purchase bike insurance and file claims only after careful consideration.

Click HERE to buy the best two wheeler insurance in India.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.