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Types of Critical Illness Insurance

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More About Critical Illness Policies

A Critical Illness Insurance Policy is a specialised health insurance plan that provides a lump sum payout upon the diagnosis of a life-threatening illness. This policy offers financial support to cover medical treatment, lifestyle adjustments and income loss due to prolonged illness. Having a critical illness plan ensures that illnesses like cancer, heart attack, kidney failure and stroke don’t drain your savings.

Coverage for multiple critical ailments allows policyholders to use the lump sum amount as needed. Whether for treatment, recovery or household expenses. With flexible options, low survival period requirements and added wellness support, critical illness insurance provides much-needed security for individuals and families.

Lump Sum Payout on Diagnosis

Provides a one-time payment upon the first diagnosis of a covered critical illness.

Wide Coverage of Critical Illnesses

Plans cover multiple serious diseases like cancer, heart attack, kidney failure and stroke.

Flexible Plan Options

Some insurers offer different plan variants with varied benefits to suit individual needs.

Low Survival Period Requirement

Policies may require a short survival period (e.g., 7 to 15 days) after diagnosis to claim benefits.

Multiple Claim Benefits

You can find plans that allow multiple payouts if diagnosed with more than one covered illness.

Tax Benefits

Premiums paid are eligible for deductions under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act, reducing taxable income.

Hassle-Free Claims

Experience streamlined claim settlement processes.

Wellness Support

Select policies provide access to wellness coaches for health management and recovery.

No Restriction on Usage

The lump sum payout can be used for treatment, recovery expenses or daily living costs.

Financial Security During Medical Emergencies

A lump sum payout on the first diagnosis helps cover high treatment costs without depleting savings.

Comprehensive Coverage

Policies cover multiple critical illnesses like cancer, heart attack, kidney failure and stroke.

Income Replacement

The payout can be used to manage daily expenses and loss of income during recovery.

Tax Savings

Premiums paid are eligible for deductions under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act, allowing savings of up to ₹60,000.

Low Survival Period Requirement

Certain plans have minimal waiting periods (as low as 7-15 days) after diagnosis to claim benefits.

Wellness Support

Some plans include wellness coaches to help policyholders regain good health post-illness.

The coverage under a Critical Illness Insurance Plan varies based on the insurer and policy type. However, common plans may include financial protection for the following life-threatening diseases:

Cardiac Conditions

  • Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)
  • First Heart Attack of specified severity
  • Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery (Open Chest CABG)
  • Open Heart Replacement or Repair of Heart Valves
  • Primary (Idiopathic) Pulmonary Hypertension

Neurological Disorders

  • Stroke resulting in permanent symptoms
  • Multiple Sclerosis with persisting symptoms
  • Parkinson’s Disease
  • Alzheimer’s Disease
  • Benign Brain Tumor

Organ-Related Conditions

  • Kidney Failure requiring regular dialysis
  • Major Organ Transplantation (heart, lung, liver, kidney, pancreas)
  • End-Stage Liver Failure

Cancer & Tumors

  • Cancer of specified severity

Paralysis & Mobility Impairments

  • Permanent Paralysis of Limbs
  • Surgery of Aorta

When choosing a Critical Illness Insurance Policy, consider the following factors to ensure comprehensive coverage and financial security:

Number of Illnesses Covered

Different plans cover a varying number of critical illnesses. Opt for a policy that provides extensive coverage for major diseases like cancer, stroke, heart attack and kidney failure.

Sum Insured

Select an adequate coverage amount based on medical inflation, treatment costs, and potential income loss during recovery.

Survival & Waiting Period

Check the survival period (typically 7-30 days) after diagnosis and the initial waiting period before the policy becomes active.

Claim Settlement Process

Choose an insurer with a hassle-free and quick claim settlement process for financial ease during emergencies.

Premium & Affordability

Compare premium costs across insurers and balance affordability with sufficient coverage.

Tax Benefits

Ensure the policy qualifies for tax deductions under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act.

Additional Benefits

Look for policies offering wellness programs, multiple claims or lump sum payouts to enhance coverage flexibility.

The claim process for a Critical Illness Insurance Policy varies by insurer, but it generally follows these key steps:

Notify the Insurer

Inform your provider via helpline, email, or portal.

Submit Documents

Provide a filled claim form, medical reports, doctor’s certificate, hospital records and ID proof.

Verification Process

The insurer reviews documents and may request additional medical checks.

Claim Approval & Payout

Once approved, the lump sum is disbursed for treatment or expenses.

Track Claim Status

Use the insurer’s online facility for updates.

Check your policy terms for specific requirements.

Here are critical illness insurance plans offering comprehensive coverage and financial security:

  • HDFC ERGO Critical Illness – Silver Plan
  • Bajaj Allianz Critical Illness
  • HDFC ERGO Critical Illness – Platinum Plan
  • Aditya Birla Activ Secure – Critical Illness
  • Aditya Birla Activ Secure – Cancer Secure

Frequently Asked Questions

It depends on the policy terms. Some plans allow multiple claims if diagnosed with different critical illnesses, while others provide coverage only for the first diagnosis. Certain policies also offer enhanced benefits for recurring conditions.

The coverage amount should be based on medical inflation, treatment costs, lifestyle expenses and income loss during recovery. However, it varies based on personal financial needs. Therefore, assessing your financial obligations can be helpful to determine adequate coverage amount.

Pre-existing conditions may not be covered or may have waiting periods. Some insurers might offer coverage with higher premiums or exclusions, so it’s best to check policy terms before purchasing.

Most policies have an initial waiting period of 30-90 days and a survival period of 7-30 days after diagnosis before a claim can be made. It is suggested to check your policy conditions when purchasing.

Anyone with a family history of critical illnesses, individuals with high-stress jobs and self-employed professionals. Moreover, those seeking financial security against major medical expenses should consider this policy.