How to Choose the Best Health Insurance for Hypertension?

When lifestyles change, the major impact is felt on one’s health. Long-working hours, irregular eating habits, and a lack of fitness can contribute towards severe health conditions. This is why many young people, who are in their 30s and early 40s have started developing illnesses such as heart ailments and diabetes. Another ailment that plagues young working Indians is high blood pressure, i.e., hypertension. Managing chronic conditions like hypertension is crucial for maintaining good health and well-being. If you are an individual with hypertension, it's essential to have comprehensive health insurance coverage catering to your specific needs. But buying medical insurance as a hypertension patient can be challenging due to potential pre-existing condition exclusions. Let’s learn how to buy a policy for yourself or someone you know who has hypertension, and how to better manage it.

What is Hypertension?

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a condition where the force of blood against the artery walls is consistently too high. Over time, this can lead to serious health problems, such as heart disease and stroke. Often called the "silent killer," hypertension typically has no obvious symptoms, making it crucial for regular monitoring. Managing hypertension through lifestyle changes and medication is essential to maintain heart health and overall wellbeing. Early detection and treatment are key to preventing long-term complications.

Why is Health Insurance Important for People with Hypertension?

Health insurance is crucial for individuals with hypertension, as it helps cover the costs of regular check-ups, treatments, and medications. With hypertension being a long-term condition, having adequate coverage ensures access to timely medical care, reducing the financial burden of hospitalisations or emergency treatments. It also provides peace of mind, knowing that unexpected health issues related to high blood pressure will be managed without crippling expenses. Early intervention and consistent care are vital to preventing complications.

Factors To Consider When Purchasing Health Insurance For Hypertension

If you were to carry out a simple web search for ‘health insurance’, you will get multiple options to choose from. Remember that purchasing a policy on the basis of simple guesswork is similar to doing something on a whim. Having some idea about the type of policy you wish to purchase to deal with a chronic illness such as hypertension is very important. Consider the following factors before you select a policy:

- Evaluate Your Healthcare Needs

Before purchasing medical insurance, assess your healthcare needs as a hypertension patient. Consider factors such as your current condition, medication requirements, frequency of doctor visits, and any potential complications associated with hypertension. Understanding your specific healthcare needs will help you select a plan that provides adequate coverage for your condition.

- Research Different Providers

Researching different health plan providers that offer coverage for pre-existing conditions like hypertension can help you filter your options. Look for insurers with specific policies or riders that cater to individuals with chronic conditions. Check the reputation, claim settlement ratio, and customer reviews of these insurers to ensure reliability and quality service.

- Study The Waiting Periods For Pre-Existing Condition

It is important to note that medical insurance plans generally impose waiting periods for coverage of pre-existing conditions, including hypertension. The waiting period varies between insurers and can range from 2 to 4 years. For example, if your parents are senior citizens and have hypertension, you can opt for health insurance for senior citizens. But opt for a policy that has a shorter waiting period. During this period, any expenses related to hypertension may not be covered. Understand the waiting period clauses of different policies and choose one with a waiting period that aligns with your healthcare needs. Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under health insurance policy .*

- Consider Disease-Specific Plans

Some insurers offer disease-specific health insurance plans that cater to individuals with specific medical conditions. These plans may have shorter waiting periods or even provide coverage for pre-existing conditions from day one. If you or your family member have been suffering from hypertension for a brief period, a pre-existing disease-specific health insurance policy can benefit you. Research and explore these disease-specific plans that are designed for individuals with hypertension or related conditions. Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under health insurance policy.*

- Compare Plans and Coverage

When buying health insurance as a hypertension patient, carefully compare multiple plans from different insurers. Look for comprehensive coverage that includes hospitalization expenses, medication costs, diagnostic tests, and doctor consultations. Pay attention to coverage limits, sub-limits, exclusions, and co-payment requirements. Opt for a plan that offers the most comprehensive coverage for your hypertension-related needs. Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under health insurance policy.*

- Disclose Accurate Medical Information

When buying a health plan, it is important that you provide accurate and complete medical information regarding your hypertension diagnosis, treatment history, and medications. Failure to disclose accurate information can cause complications during claim settlements or may lead to an increase in the cost of your policy. If you have any other disclosed habits such as smoking, it is important to disclose that information as well so that you do not have to face any hassles in the future. Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under health insurance policy.* Also Read: Are Chronic Diseases Covered Under Health Insurance Plans?

Tips To Control Hypertension

If you or your loved ones suffer from hypertension, the following tips can be followed to control or reduce it significantly:

1. Eat a proper diet with less oily foods. Aim more for green vegetables and fruits, which help your body in getting the necessary nutrition. Reduce the intake of meat, especially red meat.
2. Indulge in walks and work out to maintain your fitness levels. This will help reduce the fat and cholesterol levels in your body, which can otherwise add to the stress on your heart and cause the hypertension to aggravate.
3. If you are a smoker or drinker, cutting down heavily on these habits can have a positive effect on your hypertension.
4. Avoid stressful activities as much as you can. If you feel over-stressed, indulge in breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga.
5. Changing the type of salt you consume may help in dealing with hypertension. Opt for salt which has medium-to-low levels sodium level in it.

Also Read: Hypertension: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Conclusion

Hypertension can be controlled with proper knowledge and guidance. But it is important to have financial coverage for any complications which may arise due to hypertension. This is provided when you opt for a comprehensive health plan. With the help of a health insurance premium calculator, you can find a suitable health plan that offers peace of mind and supports your journey towards managing hypertension effectively. *Standard T&C apply Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.