Insurance Features to Tackle Air Pollution Risks

Published By: Financial Express​

Published Date: 20-10-2022

Air pollution, especially the seasonal smog that lingers after Diwali across northern India, poses serious health threats to millions. With over 90% of Indians living in areas with air quality below WHO standards, many suffer from respiratory conditions, lung damage and other issues due to prolonged exposure to polluted air.

Medical treatments for pollution-related ailments can be extremely expensive. A lung transplant alone can cost between Rs 35-40 lakh. Having appropriate health insurance is therefore crucial to protect yourself and your family from financial strain while ensuring access to quality healthcare.

When selecting health insurance to counter pollution-related health risks, consider these essential features:

Organ Donor Coverage: Makes sure that if you need a donation, the medical costs of getting an organ from a source are paid.

Pre and Post-Hospitalization Coverage: Covers expenses before and after hospitalization, including pre-surgery tests and post-surgery follow-ups.

Cashless Treatment: Eliminates the hassle of paying medical fees upfront and handling paperwork during emergencies, as bills are settled directly by the insurer. Hospital Cash Cover: Provides cash-in-hand for miscellaneous expenses during hospitalization.

Reduced PED Waiting Period: Beneficial if you already have respiratory issues, allowing you to access healthcare benefits sooner for pre-existing conditions. Double Cover Add-on: Provides twice the insurance amount for the same claim, easing financial pressure during expensive treatments.

Unlimited Reinstatement: Restores your base sum insured multiple times for unrelated illnesses within the policy year.

With these features, you can ensure comprehensive protection against the health hazards arising from India's growing air pollution problem while maintaining peace of mind.