Health insurance is a backup plan that guarantees you financial protection during medical emergencies. This support is crucial during emergencies and can alleviate your burden, enabling you to focus on your recovery. Additionally, due to the growing demand for medical insurance plans , insurers have introduced a range of plans to meet diverse requirements. One of the advancements is the inclusion of outpatient department coverage. 

Wondering what health insurance with OPD cover is and which insurance companies to consider? You're on the right page; keep reading to learn more.

What is OPD coverage?

In-hospitalisation and domiciliary coverage are common inclusions of insurance policies. However, recognizing the increasing need for outpatient services, the best health insurance company in India offers health insurance with OPD cover. Such medical insurance plans cover minor treatments, routine check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations. If you visit the doctor frequently, then health insurance with OPD cover is beneficial for you, as it can lower your out-of-pocket expenses. 

What Factors Should You Consider When Buying the Best Health Insurance in India? 

There are numerous insurers available in the market, claiming their medical insurance is the best, creating confusion. Nevertheless, health insurance planning and considering the factors mentioned below can clarify this confusion and help you make an informed decision. 

• Claim Settlement Ratio: The Claim Settlement Ratio (CSR) reflects the insurer's financial position by indicating the successful number of claims made in a given financial year. A high CSR signifies that the insurer has a strong track record of settling claims, which helps build confidence in the insurer's credibility and trustworthiness. It is considered a significant factor to assess the insurer's reputation. 

• Network Hospitals: Ensure that your insurer covers both in-hospitalisation and outpatient treatments in reputable hospitals. Access to a wide range of healthcare facilities ensures convenience and accessibility. Using network hospitals during medical emergencies can lower your out-of-pocket expenses.

• Sum Insured: When choosing the best health insurance in India, consider whether its sum insured is adequate to cover your medical expenses, including consultations, diagnostic tests, and treatments throughout the year.

• Coverage: Ensure your insurers offer benefits, including hospitalisation, cashless treatment, and critical illness coverage. Look for the best health insurance company in India with comprehensive coverage to make sure you are protected during medical emergencies. 

• Exclusions and Inclusions: Make sure to review the policy's terms and conditions to gain a clearer understanding of what is included and what is not. Many insurance companies do not cover pre-existing conditions or have a waiting period of 2-4 years, depending on the insurer. As a result, it's important to review the terms to prevent any issues later on.

How to Buy Health Insurance With OPD Cover?

Buying medical insurance plans is a straightforward process. However, if you are confused and looking for a guide, then you are on the right page. Follow the steps mentioned below: 

Step 1: Research: The first and foremost step is to conduct research about the insurance companies available in the market and understand their key metrics, such as the Claim Settlement Ratio, solvency ratio, incurred claim ratio, and more. 

Step 2: Compare Insurance Plans: There is a wide range of insurance plans available; compare them based on factors such as cost, coverage, and benefits. You can even use online premium calculators and comparison tools available on insurer websites to have a better understanding. 

Step 3: Check the Insurer's Reputation: Review and evaluate the customer feedback and ratings of the insurance company and their available policies online to confirm the financial stability of the insurer.

Step 4: Seek Professional Advice: Finding the right insurance policy for your needs and requirements can be challenging since there are many options available. Professionals can guide you through the process, compare policies, and make personalized recommendations based on your specific needs, saving you time. 

Top 5 Health Insurance Plans with OPD Coverage

Confused about which insurance policies to consider? Don't worry. You are on the right page. The following are some of the best health insurance companies in India to consider: 

• Niva Bupa:  Niva Bupa stands out as a highly reliable insurance provider in India, with a strong reputation for prioritizing customer satisfaction and offering an extensive selection of insurance options tailored to your unique requirements. Additionally, they provide the following advantages:

• Comprehensive Coverage: Niva Bupa offers a variety of insurance plans, such as family insurance, senior citizens insurance, critical illness insurance, and more. They cover your medical expenses, such as pre-and post-hospitalisation, daycare procedures, domiciliary treatments, and more, reducing your financial burden. 

• Cashless Treatments:  Niva Bupa has over 10,000 network hospitals across India, giving you access to quality healthcare without the burden of upfront payments.

• Claim Settlement Ratio:   Niva Bupa's commitment to customer satisfaction is evident through its claim settlement ratio, which exceeds 95%.

• Additional Benefits: They offer additional benefits, including wellness programs and preventive care like screening, vaccination, and more, which help in maintaining your overall well-being. 

• HDFC ERGO Health Insurance: HDFC ERGO is known for the following:

• Wide range of insurance plans (individual, family, senior citizens, etc.)
• Extensive coverage
• Customer Assistance
• cashless facilities

• Star Health and Allied Insurance: Star health insurance offers the following benefits:

• comprehensive coverage 
• Efficient Claim Process
• Unique family health insurance plans
• Innovative insurance products

• ICICI Lombard General Insurance: ICIC offers the following benefits:

• Quick claim settlement process
• Extensive coverage
• 24x7 assistance
• Wide range of insurance products

• Care Supreme Health Insurance: Care Supreme covers the following: 

• They offer a variety of sum-insured options available to suit different budgets.
• Care Supreme offers unique health insurance plans for families and individuals and covers their medical expenses.
• Offers preventive care such as free health check-ups every year.
• The plan includes both maternity and newborn coverage, making it ideal for families planning to expand. 

Wrapping Up

Health insurance plans with OPD coverage can alleviate your financial stress and offer you peace of mind in case of emergencies. When choosing the right insurance for your needs, consider factors such as premiums, coverage levels, costs, and others to make a well-informed decision. 

When it comes to health insurance, Niva Bupa stands out by offering comprehensive coverage and exceptional service. Don't just settle for any plan—choose the one that aligns with your health goals and lifestyle. With Niva Bupa, you are choosing a future of security and care.