Know About Pre-Policy Medical Check-Up In Health Insurance | Bharti AXA

Life is a roller-coaster with ups and downs. Everyone works day and night to secure their life goals. Even though you work hard, some unforeseen circumstances might disrupt your plans. However, you will be in a better position in the future if you plan to invest in a security cover now. One way to ensure that is by purchasing a mediclaim policy for self and your loved ones. When you research about these schemes, you will find that insurance companies require you to undergo a pre-policy medical checkup. The pre-policy checkup is an integral stage in your policy purchase process as that has a bearing on your coverage and premium both.

Due to the rising costs of medical expenditure, almost every insurance company wants to get your health condition diagnosed for existing illnesses if any. Based on the medical checkup, they offer you a policy that will ensure that in the future, during dire situations, you are covered financially. Before you select a suitable mediclaim policy, you must understand the integrities of pre-policy medical checkup.

What is Pre-Policy Medical Checkup?

The pre-policy medical checkup refers to the medical examination that is requested by health insurers before they provide coverage to a prospective policyholder. It relates to the various tests and procedures that the policyholders need to undergo before they get accepted by the insurers for coverage. This checkup is mandatory for applicants above a certain age and is done to determine the applicant’s current medical fitness.

Another reason behind asking for a pre-policy medical checkup while you buy a mediclaim policy is that you might choose a sum assured beyond what you are eligible for. Such a situation will increase the risk for the insurer.

What is the Importance of a Pre-Policy Medical Checkup?

The majority of health insurance companies demand a pre-policy medical checkup before providing mediclaim coverage. These tests set a benchmark against which the insurance company measures your health. They will reveal any pre-medical condition or illness that you might be suffering from. Further, it will help the insurer determine the appropriate mediclaim coverage for you.

Getting the tests done are also beneficial for you while filing for a claim. In case the insurer states that a specific illness stems from an existing medical condition not mentioned before, your claim application may get rejected. With the pre-policy medical checkup results in place, both you and the insurance company can easily avoid confusion related to the claims.

What Tests Are Conducted?

The insurance risk assessment practices vary from one insurer to others. The tests are done based on the medical risk associated with policyholders. The chosen coverage amount, and your age will be the factors upon which the types of tests to be administered are decided. The standard tests which you need to undergo usually include measurement of blood pressure, ECG (Electrocardiogram), blood sugar, blood count, liquid profile tests and similar others.

What Is the Procedure After the Tests Are Done?

After getting the test results, the insurance company will determine the sum insured for you. If the tests signify the existence of a critical illness or medical condition, the company might opt for any of the following ways:

1. The company might issue the mediclaim policy and extend you with the cover but at a higher premium. The higher premium will be stipulated to cover the cost of the expenses due to the illness or condition detected. Your age and the possible impact of the diagnosed disease on your health will determine the increase in the premium.
2. Many insurers choose to approve the policy while excluding cover for the pre-existing medical condition. These situations arise when the insurers deem the illness to be risky.
3. When there is a significantly high risk involved and the policy buyer may require frequent treatment, the insurer can choose to repudiate the application. However, it is best to give it a try, as you may get some financial coverage.

Be Informed to Make the Right Decision

You must ensure purchasing a mediclaim policy does not interfere with your finances in the long run. It will provide you with a protective cover that you can avail in case of medical emergencies. While there are several mediclaim plans available each with unique features/benefits, you must understand their pros and cons before you make the buying decision.

We, at ICICI Lombard General Insurance (Bharti AXA General Insurance*), offer you with various mediclaim plans. Our team will provide you with all the necessary information and guide you through the process of buying a mediclaim policy. Be smart and be safe with having a suitable mediclaim plan by your side.