Does Health Insurance Cover International Hospitalisation ?

When choosing a health insurance plan, we typically consider general features like medical or surgical expenses, preventive care costs, and other illness and emergency-related factors. 

Questions like ‘why’, ‘what’, and ‘when’ about health insurance are common. While these are essential, what if you travel to foreign countries frequently? Will your current health insurance policy cover your medical expenses there? 

If you haven’t heard of health insurance plans that include international coverage, it is because most insurance providers rule this out due to the vast difference between healthcare in India and abroad. As of 2019, the cost sustained for a heart bypass surgery in the US was around ₹1 crore, a steep figure when compared to ₹6.6 lakhs here in India.

Although worldwide coverage is rare, a few insurance providers may offer it in a tailored package. But before we venture into the details, ask yourself: Do you need international health insurance? 

Who Needs International Coverage ?

You might find yourself in another country for several months or years for work. Your general health insurance wouldn’t be of much use away from home. This is where international health insurance in India would offer significant benefits overseas.

On the other hand, if you seek medical treatment in another country, it may not be covered in your standard health insurance plan. In that case, international health insurance becomes a wise investment. 

What Does International Health Insurance In India Typically Cover?

International health insurance in India empowers you with the freedom to avail coverage overseas for :

• Emergency medical evacuation and hospitalisation
• Pre and Post-hospitalisation care
• Swift transportation like Air-ambulance services
• Accidents
• Surgeries

While each insurance provider will have their coverage parameters, you can assess the overall benefits you stand to gain.

International HealthInsurance vs Travel Insurance

At this point, you might be thinking, “Why don’t I just get travel insurance?” International coverage would suit those who are abroad for an extended period, whereas travel insurance is more suitable for shorter trips. Unlike extensive healthcare access with health insurance plans, travel insurance is suitable for cancellations, luggage loss or emergency medical treatments.

How To Know Which Insurance Suits You Best ?

Determine the most suitable insurance for your needs by matching your specific situations with the examples and recommendations below :

How To Choose An International Health Insurance Plan ?

This is where you need to pay a little more attention. We have listed some critical points to remember when choosing an international health insurance plan :

• Ensure your coverage can handle unforeseen medical expenses, especially with the high costs of treatments abroad. Medical procedure costs vary by country, potentially skyrocketing unexpectedly. Opting for a plan with ample coverage provides peace of mind in such situations. 
• Do ensure that a plan covers both emergency and planned hospitalisations abroad, and also the waiting periods associated with them. And also consider the entire procedures for both of them, starting from getting admitted in a hospital and up to the treatment stage.
• Look for a plan that explicitly covers expenses for ambulance services, in-patient hospitalisation, OPD treatments and day-care surgeries. 
• Some plans offer worldwide coverage, while others may limit coverage to certain regions or countries. Choose a plan that covers the countries you plan to visit frequently or reside in. Check for a list of included countries in the policy documents. 
• Opt for a cashless treatment provision. This allows you to receive treatment at network hospitals without upfront payments. The insurance company settles the bills directly. Look for plans with a wide network of hospitals abroad to ensure cashless treatment options. 
• Choose a plan that offers cumulative bonuses (Increasing coverage limits with each claim-free year), free or discounted annual check-ups for preventive care, post-claim insured sum restoration (replenishment of your coverage amount after a claim), etc.
• Carefully review the exclusions list. This may include pre-existing health problems, high-risk activities like extreme sports, and certain advanced or experimental treatments.
• Check for customisations offered by your insurance provider to utilise benefits tailored to your needs.

Key Takeaways

Usually, high-income individuals who travel abroad for longer periods of time opt for worldwide coverage. Hence, being well versed in international health insurance in India empowers you to make an informed decision. But if you do not fall into this demographic, you can explore other health insurance options online. 

We hope this concise article has helped you understand the nuances of international health insurance. As always, we are committed to offering education and guidance for the complexities of such a topic, knowing that your health is a priority not just for you, but also for us. Furthermore, you can consider platforms like PhonePe for a seamless and hassle-free insurance purchase experience.