To accommodate such high-risk individuals, specialized cardiac insurance plans are available, though they might come with higher premiums
The increasing risk of heart ailments, especially in younger Indians, underscores the importance of being covered by a comprehensive health insurance plan. All health insurance plans cover heart treatments. So, it is important to have health insurance with adequate coverage that takes care of any heart-related ailments.
“For those who have experienced a heart attack, however, the landscape changes considerably. Premiums often increase by 10 to 30 per cent, reflecting the heightened risk due to complications,” says Sharad Mathur, MD and CEO, Universal Sompo General Insurance. So, it is important to get health insurance early on in life.
Specific Cardiac Plans
“To accommodate such high-risk individuals, specialized cardiac insurance plans are available, though they might come with higher premiums. In recent years, the emphasis on wellness and preventive healthcare has intensified. Insurers are now aligning their products to support healthier lives, making insurance not just a safety net for emergencies but a partner in long-term health management,” says Mathur.
“Now there are even plans designed specifically to provide coverage to people with a history of heart conditions like Care Freedom by Care Health, Reassure by Niva Bupa, Activ One by Aditya Birla and Star Comprehensive by Star Health. Conditions and treatments covered include cardiac arrests, heart attacks, coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), heart valve replacement, pacemaker implantation and heart transplant,” says Siddharth Singhal, head - health insurance, Policybazaar.
“The cost of treatment for some of these treatments can go up as high as Rs 30-50 lakh, which is why it’s recommended to go for a higher sum insured,” he adds.
Holistic Planning Is Key
Additionally, many insurers enforce waiting periods of six months to three years before offering coverage, while some may deny coverage altogether for those with significant medical history. “These barriers underscore the importance of early planning and continuous health management, positioning insurance as not just a financial safeguard but a crucial partner in promoting overall well-being,” says Geetanjali Chugh Kothari, Chief Marketing Officer, Future Generali India Life Insurance.
“Health insurance plans also offer wellness benefits now to encourage policyholders to take care of their health better. The wellness benefits offer discounts on renewal, special consultations with health experts and more,” says Siddharth.
A comprehensive health insurance and specific insurance if one has existing heart conditions, can help one be adequately covered against heart conditions.