For most women in India, ignoring their own health is a part of growing up. Along with the daily rigour of managing family, household and work, most women find it challenging to look after themselves and their health.
This makes it all the more important for women to have health insurance. Over the past few years, awareness about health insurance is gaining prominence. While insurance coverage is increasing, it still needs to be robust. People need to realise how essential it is to have a suitable health insurance plan for every family member, especially mothers.
Why is Health Insurance Important for Mothers?
If you are a mother or want to secure your mother’s healthcare needs, take a look at the multiple benefits that come with a health insurance policy:
Women-centric health plans
Women are susceptible to certain illnesses that are unique to their gender, such as breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and others. The cost of treatments for these illnesses can be extremely high, and without the protection of a health insurance plan, women may struggle to cover these expenses. That's why it's crucial for women to have health insurance coverage that specifically addresses these illnesses, ensuring that they can afford the necessary medical care without facing financial hardship.
Cashless claims make things easier and simpler
Insurance companies collaborate with hospitals to offer cashless medical treatments to their policyholders. This means that if your mother is sick or needs hospitalisation, all you need to do is take her to the nearest network hospital and produce the policy credentials. The whole process, from admission to treatment and discharge, will be cashless as the insurer will directly settle the bills with the hospital. This will ensure a seamless and stress-free experience.
Offers peace of mind
At times when you are not around, your mother’s health can add to your tension. With a good insurance policy, you can ensure that your mother receives regular medical check-ups without any difficulties. Additionally, it can be a source of relief in times of sudden health emergencies by covering all aspects of medical care, including transportation and expenses.
Tax benefits
Under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act, of 1961, women can receive a tax benefit on the health insurance premiums they pay. They can claim a deduction of up to INR 25,000 for the premiums paid towards a health insurance policy for themselves, and the deduction limit increases to INR 50,000 in the case of senior citizen parents. This can effectively reduce their taxable income and lower their overall tax liability.
Coverage for maternity
While women are blessed with the ability to bear children, the cost of maternity can be substantial. In case of any complications during childbirth, medical expenses may arise. Investing in a women's health insurance plan can cover these expenses, ensuring that women receive the best possible care during their pregnancy and childbirth without any financial burden.
Covers mental health
Mental health is an essential part of the overall well-being of an individual, and it has a direct impact on one’s physical health. Illnesses such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and schizophrenia are some issues that women may be facing knowingly or unknowingly. Health insurance policies also offer coverage for mental health issues as per the Mental Healthcare Act of 2017.
How to choose the best health insurance coverage for mothers?
- While choosing a health insurance plan for your mother, here are a few important points to consider:
Weigh the benefits
- To ensure that your mother receives the best health insurance plan, you should carefully consider the benefits that each policy covers. A good health insurance policy covers a broad range of services that cater to your mother's healthcare needs.
Look for additional features
In addition to coverage for medical expenses, look for added features that can make managing health insurance easier. Choose a policy that offers convenient payment options for health insurance premiums and pre- and post-hospitalisation expenses.
Conclusion
Having adequate health insurance coverage can help in bridging the gulf between healthcare needs and financial conditions. The right plan ensures that women have access to the health services that they need. Women also need to have health insurance in order to protect themselves from the potential financial burden of medical expenses. Having access to preventative care and basic treatments can help improve medical outcomes and also reduce the treatment burden. With easy access to health care, here’s hoping that mothers would no longer have to push their medical care needs to the backseat.
Recommended Links: Women's Health Insurance Plan
