Health Insurance for Disabled in India: A Comprehensive Coverage

Specially-abled individuals are looked upon differently in our society. Many might look at them as a burden on society and resources. However, these individuals always have a positive outlook towards life, which is important in today’s world of stress and negativity. However, they do not lead easy life. Fortunately, health insurance can be an essential tool to empower the specially-abled in our society. Specially-abled individuals face unique challenges, and without adequate healthcare coverage, these challenges may become even more daunting. The insurance policy provides the necessary resources and support to address the unique healthcare needs of the specially-abled community. Here is how it empowers them.

Health Insurance As a Tool of Empowerment

Here is how health insurance helps specially-abled individuals tackle health problems and lead a normal life:

1. Access to Medical Care

One of the most significant benefits of insurance for the specially-abled is access to necessary medical care. Specially-abled individuals often require specialized medical attention and equipment, which can be expensive and difficult to access without insurance. Health insurance provides coverage for a wide range of medical services, including hospitalization, surgeries, medications, and assistive devices such as wheelchairs and hearing aids. With health insurance, the specially-abled can receive the care they need without worrying about the high costs associated with it*.

2. Provides Preventive Care

Another way insurance empowers the specially-abled, is by providing access to preventative care. And preventative care is essential for individuals with disabilities as it can help identify potential health issues before they become more severe. With this health cover, the specially-abled can receive regular check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations, that can help prevent and manage chronic health conditions. Preventative care can also help identify and address potential health issues before they become more severe, improving the overall quality of life for the specially-abled*.

3. Financial independence

This insurance also provides financial security for the specially-abled. Individuals with disabilities often face significant financial challenges, such as high medical costs and limited employment opportunities. With insurance, they can manage some of these financial burdens by covering the costs of necessary medical care. This can free up resources for other essential expenses, such as housing, transportation, and education*.

4. Better Assistance

Insurance can empower the specially-abled by promoting independence and self-reliance. Specially-abled individuals often require significant support and assistance from caregivers, which can be a significant burden on both the individual and their family. The specially-abled can access the medical services and equipment they need to live independently with health insurance for disabled individuals. This may improve their overall quality of life and reduce their reliance on caregivers and support services.

5. Promotes Equality

Health insurance also plays a critical role in promoting social inclusion and equality for the specially-abled. Many individuals with disabilities may face discrimination and exclusion in society, which can result in limited access to essential services and resources. Health insurance may help promote equality by ensuring that the specially-abled have access to the same healthcare services and resources as the rest of the population. This can help reduce the stigma and discrimination associated with disabilities and promote a more inclusive and equitable society*.

How Are Disabilities Categorised Under Health Insurance Plans?

There are three types of recognised disabilities:

1. Congenital Disability

This type of disability is described as a disability present in the person since their birth. The cause of this disability could either be due to hereditary issues or due to other factors such as exposure to radiation or other elements during pregnancy.

2. Mental Disability

A disability that affects the mental health of an individual is known as a mental disability. Examples such as schizophrenia, autism or down syndrome are considered mental disabilities. These disabilities can affect the day-to-day life of the individual.

3. Accidental Disability

A disability caused to injuries sustained in an accident is known as an accidental disability. A disability, which is either partial, total or temporary in nature, comes under this category.

Types of Health Insurance Policies for Persons with Disabilities

The Indian government recently launched two types of health insurance policies specifically for specially-abled individuals:

1. Niramaya Health Insurance

In this plan, a sum of Rs.1 Lakh is offered to individuals who require treatment for disabilities such as cerebral palsy and autism. One advantage is that no prior medical test is required to avail of this policy. However, a disability certificate has to be provided. The premium for a family with a monthly income less than Rs.15,000 is Rs.250. If the family earns more than that, the premium is Rs.500.

2. Swavlamban Health Insurance

This policy is a group plan, where the family members of the specially-abled individual are also covered. If the individual is suffering from a disability such as blindness or deafness, this policy can be beneficial. This policy also does not require any medical tests. If the annual family income is less than Rs.3 Lakhs, they are eligible for this policy. The premium is Rs.3100, of which only 10% has to be paid by the policyholder; the remainder is paid by the government.

Conclusion

With these policies, you can live life normally just the way you want to. If you wish to know more about health insurance for the disabled, you can get in touch with your nearest insurance advisor. *Standard T&C Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.