Is health insurance of Rs 10 lakh enough for treatment? This is how mathematics has changed

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In today’s time, a health insurance cover of Rs 10 lakh is generally considered sufficient, but rapidly rising medical inflation may prove it to be inadequate. According to reports, healthcare expenditure in India is increasing at the rate of about 12-13% every year. In such a situation, treatment of serious diseases in big cities can cost more than Rs 10 lakh.

Rs 10 lakh now only base cover

Experts believe that a cover of Rs 10 lakh should now be considered as a starting level (base) and not the ultimate protection. Especially in metro cities, heart surgery, cancer or ICU expenses can easily exceed this limit. That’s why people are now advising to take super top-up along with the base policy.

Why is health insurance important?

Health insurance protects your savings from being wiped out in case of a medical emergency. It covers hospital expenses, treatment, investigations and in many cases even home treatment. Besides, facilities like cashless treatment and health checkup are also available.

Danger of not having insurance

If you do not have adequate insurance, the cost of a general surgery or a few days in the ICU can reach lakhs of rupees. In such a situation, people may have to break their savings, sell property or take a loan.

Keep these 6 things in mind before taking a policy

  • Cover and Top-up: Elderly people and those living in metro should take a cover or top-up of up to Rs 15-25 lakh.
  • City and Lifestyle: Keep this in mind that treatment is expensive in big cities.
  • Pre-existing disease: Be sure to understand the waiting period and conditions.
  • Co-payment and Limit: Check room rent, treatment limits and other conditions.
  • Network Hospital: Choose a company with good network and claim settlement.
  • Effect of inflation: Take a policy in which the cover increases with time.

What should investors do?

Before taking the policy, it is important to consult a doctor and insurance expert. Overall, a health cover of Rs 10 lakh in 2026 may be enough, but it would be wise to increase it or add a top-up for better protection.

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