Maximum Age of Entry
Check the age eligibility before selecting any medical insurance for senior citizens. Some plans cap the entry age at 65, while others offer coverage beyond that. Those looking for health insurance for elderly individuals aged 70 and above should look for policies with a higher or no age limit.
Sum Insured & Enhancement Option
Opt for a health insurance plan for senior citizens that offers a high sum insured, as medical treatments tend to be expensive. Also, see if the plan allows you to enhance the coverage after a few claim-free years—this flexibility is vital for long-term protection.
Waiting Period for Pre-existing Conditions
Most SR citizen medical insurance plans have a waiting period of 2 to 4 years for pre-existing diseases. Choose a policy with a shorter waiting period if the individual has known health issues, as this ensures quicker claim eligibility.
Coverage Inclusions & Exclusions
Understand what’s covered under the senior citizen health insurance scheme, like hospitalisation, AYUSH treatments, donor expenses, and pre-/post-hospitalisation. Equally important is knowing what’s not covered, such as cosmetic procedures or self-inflicted injuries.
Lifelong Renewability
Ensure the policy offers lifelong renewability, especially if you're buying insurance for seniors in their 60s. It ensures continuous health cover for senior citizens without worrying about age-based discontinuation later.
Cashless Network Hospitals
Check if the insurer provides access to a wide cashless hospital network, so senior members can avail themselves of treatment without upfront payments—an essential benefit in emergencies.
Premium vs. Benefits
Compare the premium against the benefits offered. While a health insurance policy for senior citizens might have a slightly higher premium, ensure it offers value through benefits like teleconsultations, diagnostics discounts, and OPD vouchers.
