Have you been feeling like the world is getting a little bit too blurry lately? It could be cataracts. Cataracts, which are clouding of the lens of your eye, can cause blurred vision and affect your ability to see clearly. They are usually an age-related condition, but cataracts can also occur in younger adults or children as well. In this post, we will discuss the causes of cataract so that you can make sure to stay on top of any potential vision problems before they get worse.

How is Cataract caused?         

Discovering the root causes of cataract starts with understanding how they develop. As we age, the proteins in our eye lenses undergo degenerative processes that lead to denaturation and coagulation. This protein degeneration is what causes the loss of lens transparency and ultimately forms cataracts. While aging plays a major role in this disease, there are also other factors apart from age that can contribute to cataract development.

The following causes and risk factors are responsible for the occurrence of cataract:

• Aging: Increasing age tend to cause clouding of lenses and cause age-related or senile cataract. It is the most common cause and cataract type that occurs worldwide.
• Injury: Inflammation or injury of any type that affect lenses might cause cataract. Injury is one of the most common cataract reasons in one eye among young individuals. Eye condition like glaucoma is also responsible for cataract.
• Diseases: Certain diseases makes a person prone to cataract, which include:
  • Diseases that affect hormonal balance in the body like Hyperparathyroidism, Diabetes Mellitus, and Cretinism.
  • Diseases that affect whole body/systemic diseases like Atopic dermatitis, Neurofibromatosis type 2, and Myotonic dystrophy.
  • Diseases that affect eyes (ocular diseases) like Anterior Uveitis, retinitis pigmentosa, Stickler syndrome, Leber congenital amaurosis, etc.
  • Previous surgery in the eyes due to some reason may also cause cataract.
• Congenital reason: It refers to the presence of cataract from birth, which occurs mostly due to poor nutrition of the mother, infection of the mother with rubella and rubeola virus during pregnancy.
• Use of certain drugs: Drugs like corticosteroids and anticholinesterase inhibitors are known to cause cataract if consumed on a regular basis.
• Lack of nutritious food: Foods play a major role in the maintenance of overall health and also in the health of the eyes. Lack of a diet that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants is one of the reasons behind cataract.

• Lifestyle factors: Factors like daily smoking, less physical activity, obesity, and regular alcohol use may cause cataract.
• UV radiation treatment: Exposure to ultraviolet radiation due to various reasons, like for cancer treatment, may cause cataract. Similarly, exposure to ionizing radiation during certain cancers of the eyes or any other disease treatment might cause cataract.
• Chemical exposure: Exposure to certain chemicals like thallium, naphthalene, galactose and lactose is known to cause cataract.
• Blunt trauma in the eyes: Injury in the eyes that may be due to any blunt object like a rod, stick, chemical fall, wood, brick, cement, or injuries at the workplace might lead to cataract.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition characterised by the immune system mistakenly targeting and attacking healthy cells in the body. This results in painful swelling and inflammation in the affected areas. The primary targets of rheumatoid arthritis are the joints. Rheumatoid particularly targets joints in the hands, wrists, and knees. This damage caused by rheumatoid can result in persistent or chronic pain, a lack of balance, and deformities. Rheumatoid can impact other body tissues and lead to complications in organs like the lungs, heart, and eyes. By knowing the causes of rheumatoid arthritis, it is easy to get timely medical intervention.

How is Rheumatoid Arthritis caused?

The precise reason for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) remains unknown as of now, however, rheumatoid is generally associated with a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. Several risk factors, as given below, contribute to the likelihood of developing rheumatoid arthritis:

1. Family history: Individuals with close relatives who have RA are at a higher risk of developing the condition.
2. Gender: Women and those designated female at birth face a two to threefold increased risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.
3. Smoking: Smoking not only heightens the risk of RA but also exacerbates the severity of the disease.
4. Obesity: Having excess body weight increases the chances of developing RA.

Do you often suffer from chest pain, nausea and heartburn? Do you feel like the molten lava in your stomach may burn through your oesophagus any minute? If yes, then it’s time to take some measures against acidity for health. Acidity is a common condition where an excess production of acids in the stomach by the gastric glands creates irritation and a burning sensation known as ‘heartburn’. It can be due to either too much spicy food or simply because of improper diet plans adopted unconsciously. The long-term effects of acidity are quite serious and must be dealt with immediately. In this article, we'll discuss the main causes of acidity.

How is Acidity Caused?

So, what causes acidity? One of the most prevalent causes of acidity is an abnormality in the stomach known as a hiatal hernia. Typically, the diaphragm plays a role in retaining stomach acid where it belongs. However, in the presence of a hiatal hernia, acid can migrate upwards into the oesophagus, leading to the manifestation of acid reflux disease symptoms.

In addition to hiatal hernias, there are several other common risk factors associated with acid reflux disease:

• Consuming large meals or lying down shortly after eating can contribute to the condition.
• Being overweight or obese can cause acidity.
• Eating a substantial meal and subsequently lying on your back or bending at the waist can increase the issue.
• Snacking in close proximity to bedtime is also a recognised risk factor.
• Consuming specific foods such as citrus, tomatoes, chocolate, mint, garlic, onions, or spicy and fatty foods can trigger acid reflux.
• Certain beverages, including alcohol, carbonated drinks, coffee, or tea, have the potential to increase the condition.
• Tobacco use, such as smoking, is another risk factor for acid reflux disease.
• Lastly, being pregnant can predispose individuals to acid reflux condition

Gonorrhoea is an incredibly common yet often underrated sexually transmitted infection (STI). With millions of people worldwide estimated to get infected annually, it's one of the most prevalent conditions in our society - however, those who suffer from its telltale symptoms don't always receive adequate support or recognition. Although there is a wide range of risk factors associated with developing gonorrhoea, understanding what puts you at an increased risk can help you stay safe and healthy. To gain a better grasp on some of the primary causes, let’s take a look at the causes of gonorrhoea.

How is Gonorrhoea Caused?

Gonorrhoea is caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The bacteria is colloquially known as the clap. Gonorrhoea is a condition that can affect individuals of any age or gender who are sexually active. It can be transmitted during

• Oral, anal or vaginal intercourse
• Childbirth: There is a risk of transmitting gonorrhoea infection to the newborn baby

Those identified as male at birth are more inclined to exhibit symptoms if infected with gonorrhoea. However, it's important to note that signs of infection may not become evident until several weeks after initial exposure, creating the possibility of unwittingly transmitting the disease to sexual partners.

Other risk factors of gonorrhoea include:

• Having multiple sexual partners
• Having had a prior sexually transmitted disease
• Practising unsafe sexual intercourse

Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy (AYUSH) are a few of the numerous systems of traditional medicine in India. They have existed for thousands of years but their full potential is yet to be realised. Our government, in an attempt to integrate these traditional systems of medicine into the public health system, hopes to launch a national policy for AYUSH by October this year.

At an award function for Ayurvedic practitioners in Mumbai, the Minister of State for AYUSH, Shripad Naik said, “The Centre is drafting a national policy for AYUSH. The final draft policy is likely to be circulated among ministries and states by June before it makes its way to the Cabinet. The AYUSH ministry is targeting to launch the final policy latest by October.”

The policy proposes to include Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy into the universal health insurance scheme. “It will also focus on the need for creation of infrastructure, research facilities and regulation to streamline AYUSH.” Naik said.

The minister further added that there were plans to globally promote India as a preferred destination for AYUSH.

“We will also set specific targets to be achieved within deadlines, bring regulation for education and research, as well as set standards for AYUSH medicines and treatment.” Naik said. This is to discover the full potential of traditional systems of medicine and how to harness it to improve primary and preventive health care.

So, India is all set to make traditional medicine international in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the United States, through research and development. “The UN agency has evinced keen interest in AYUSH medicines and is slated to sign an agreement to this effect in Geneva soon.“ Naik added.

Gallstones are small, hard deposits that are formed in the gallbladder, an organ located near the liver. While many people don’t experience any symptoms from these stones, they can cause an array of problems if left untreated. Gallbladder stones may be tiny or may grow to the size of a golf ball as a result, the gallbladder stones can block the bile duct, causing pain in the upper right side of the abdomen and other symptoms like pain radiating to the shoulder or the back, nausea or vomiting. These conditions require medical attention and treatment that is accessible through health insurance. In this article, we aim to explore the different causes of gallstones.

How are Gallstones Caused?

There may be a few possible reasons for the causes of gallstones in adults:

Too much cholesterol in the bile

Our body needs bile for digestion which usually dissolves cholesterol. But in some cases, when bile cannot digest enough cholesterol, the extra cholesterol might form stones in the gallbladder.

Too much bilirubin in the bile

In conditions like liver damage and certain blood disorders, our body produces more bilirubin, which is a substance produced during the breakdown of red blood cells. When bilirubin is formed, it passes through the liver and is finally excreted out of the body. When the concentration of bilirubin increases in the liver, pigment gallstones are formed in the gallbladder because it can’t break down the excess bilirubin, resulting in the formation of hard stones that are often dark brown or black. 

Concentrated bile due to a full gallbladder

The gallbladder needs to empty its bile content to function properly. But in some cases of liver diseases, the gallbladder fails to empty its bile concentration as a result, the bile concentration becomes too high, resulting in the formation of gallstones.

Apart from these, the risk factors for gallstones can be related to diet, which can be controlled, while other factors are uncontrollable risk factors that include age, race, sex, as well as family history.

Lifestyle risk factors

●    Obesity
●    A diet rich in fat or cholesterol and low in fibre
●    Undergoing rapid weight loss
●    Living with type 2 diabetes

Genetic risk factors

●    Being born female
●    Being a Native American increases the risk
●    Having a family history of gallstones
●    Being 60 years or older

Medical risk factors

●    Living with cirrhosis
●    Being pregnant
●    Taking medicines to lower cholesterol
●    Taking medicines to control high estrogen content 
 

Conclusion

Gallstones are a common condition that can cause significant discomfort and certain complications if left untreated. So, one should look for the causes of gallstones and their symptoms and explore gallstone treatment options to manage gallstones effectively. Some changes in diet and leading a healthy lifestyle can help lower the risk of gallstone formation and promote better digestive health. If a person experiences acute cholecystitis or develops symptoms related to gallstones, he should seek immediate treatment.

The above blog aims to provide general information about health and related topics. Any information provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials is not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for any medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is important that you contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

Herpes is an incredibly common viral infection, and, as such, it’s important to understand the causes of herpes. Unfortunately, many people do not have a full understanding of what these viruses are or how they are transmitted- even though a majority of individuals will encounter them at some point in their lives. In this article, we will explain the different causes of herpes so you can be better equipped to identify and protect yourself from contracting this infection.

How is Herpes Caused?

The following are some of the most common causes of herpes:

• Herpes spreads via physical contact or contact with fluid from a sore. Once contracted, these viruses persist for life. The virus resides primarily in nerve cells in a dormant state. Periodically, the virus may reactivate, leading to oral or genital herpes outbreaks.
• Both oral and genital herpes stem from HSV infection. HSV infection is generally transmitted through contact with a herpes sore or active virus in asymptomatic individuals. The condition is generally known as asymptomatic shedding.
• Ever wondered what causes herpes on skin? HSV-1 usually causes oral herpes (cold sores) and is transmitted through non-sexual contact like kissing or touching. However, it can also be passed to the genitals through oral sex. In fact, HSV-1 has become a common cause of genital herpes, especially in young women.
• HSV-2 predominantly causes genital herpes, primarily transmitted through intimate sexual contact.

Several risk factors significantly raise the likelihood of herpes infection, including:

• Unprotected sex
• Multiple partners
• Anonymous partners
• Prior STIs

It is important to note that genital herpes risk is higher in females than biological males.

Additionally, you should look into what is your health insurance coverage regarding herpes.

Conclusion

Herpes spreads through physical contact or fluid from sores, with asymptomatic shedding being a concern. Understanding these causes is crucial for timely intervention. Risk factors with respect to causes of herpes include unprotected sex and multiple partners; females face a higher genital herpes risk than males.

The above blog aims to provide general information about health and related topics. Any information provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials is not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for any medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is important that you contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

The sudden nature of this emergency is sure to impact your savings and is also likely to cause panic. A health insurance policy reduces the stress of arranging of finances single handedly and also offers a variety of medical benefits.

Many insurance companies offer health insurance plans that are designed to offer coverage to the entire family. National health policy in India offer primary health care services that are designed to reduce financial stress and burden on the family of the ailing individual. Insurance companies that offer family health insurance policies offer compensation for different medical expenses. Comparing different policy quotes of health insurance policies for family will make you more aware about the different features and allow you to select the perfect plan for your family.

The ICICI Lombard complete health insurance policy offered by ICICI Lombard may offers a comprehensive insurance cover and the floater benefit extends policy cover to the entire family. The sum insured offered by such a health insurance can be shared by all the family members till the policy term expires. Thus, with the payment of a single premium you can insure all the family members with a medical cover.

Managing such a health insurance policy is easy as you do not have to remember individual policy renewal dates. This health insurance policy may also offers life-long renew ability that offers continuous benefits to your loved ones with premium medical care.

The insurance policy offers compensation for like room charges, doctor’s or surgeon’s fees, expenses borne by the insured individual for medicines, etc. All these features are sure to come handy if the patient is placed under medical observation during minor injuries due to an accident or mishap. In cases where the total duration of hospitalization is more than 24 hours, this policy may also offers coverage for inpatient treatment and prevents sudden loss of finances.

It also extends coverage for all expenses 30 days before and 60 days after hospitalisation and is sure to greatly reduce the financial burden in today’s inflated times where medical aid is costly. Another important aspect of the health insurance policy is the cashless claim feature. With this feature, the insurance company offers the ailing member of you family premium health care from its wide network of hospitals. All the hospitalisation bills are settled by the insurance provider and you are relived of monetary stress that could arise when arranging for finances singlehandedly.

Recent studies indicate that the rise in eye infections in cities is a direct result of air pollution. 30,000 people were detected with cornea infection caused by the increased particulates in the air last year in Delhi. Doctors state that the problem is serious because if allergies and conjunctivitis are left untreated, they can damage the cornea and impair vision.

According to doctors, the tear film of the eyes is made more acidic by pollutants like nitric oxide, sulphur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide existing in high levels in the air.

Samir Sud, an eye expert said, "One should not rub eyes directly even if fine particulates enter, rather wash eyes with water. After that they should apply a cool compress to help reduce inflammation."

Direct contact with an allergen leads to the allergic reaction in the eye. Once it happens, chances are that it would occur repeatedly. It is suggested to visit an eye expert if the problem is causing considerable inconvenience. The doctor might recommend antihistamines or anti-inflammatory eye drops. In certain cases the doctor might even suggest steroid eye drops for relief.

Measles is an airborne viral infection that affects many people, young and old alike. Highly contagious, measles can spread quickly if preventative measures against the virus are not taken. While it’s easy to blame the measles virus for this severe illness – which can even result in death if left untreated – there are various factors which contribute directly or indirectly toward its spread. As such, it’s important to know more about what causes measles so you can take action before the disease has a chance to spread. This allows you to claim your health insurance at the right time. In this blog post we'll cover some of the most common causes of measles.

How is Measles Caused?

Measles is the result of infection by a contagious virus known as morbillivirus.

Morbillivirus spreads through various means. This includes the release of contaminated droplets into the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. The following are some of the most popularly known causes of measles:

• Morbillivirus can be transmitted through intimate contact such as kissing
• Sharing drinks or food
• Shaking hands or holding hands, or hugging with an infected individual.
• Pregnant individuals can pass on the virus to their babies during pregnancy, childbirth, or through breastfeeding

Notably, the morbillivirus can persist in the air even after the infected person has left the vicinity. After exposure to the morbillivirus, it can take between six to 21 days for symptoms of measles to manifest. This period is known as the incubation period. Importantly, individuals become contagious approximately four days before the onset of the characteristic rash and continue to be so for about four days after the rash appears.

It's essential to note that there is no known cure for measles. The virus typically follows its natural course, which usually lasts for about 10 to 14 days.

However, some measures can be taken to alleviate symptoms and discomfort during this time. Some timely pain-relieving intervention include taking over-the-counter pain relievers, ensuring adequate rest, staying well-hydrated, gargling with salt water, and avoiding bright lights if one's eyes become sensitive.

Conclusion

Measles poses a significant threat, especially to young children. Measles spread through respiratory droplets, close contact, and from pregnant or new mother to child. Despite a readily available vaccine, thousands still succumb to this preventable disease annually. Understanding the causes of measles is crucial for early intervention. Timely vaccination remains the most effective defense against measles.

The above blog aims to provide general information about health and related topics. Any information provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials is not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for any medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is important that you contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

However market statistics show that the decision to opt for an insurance cover does not immediately culminate into a purchase. This is generally due to the availability of multiple types and options of insurance schemes that leave the buyer undecided on the best course of action.

Are you too in a similar stage of dilemma? If so, spend the next few minutes with us, as we acquaint you with the various aspects of a Complete Healthcare Insurance Plan.

For starters, health insurance plans offer the following benefits:

Peace of Mind: Needless to say an insurance plan that provides financial relief in medical exigencies gives immense peace of mind

Reduced Financial Liabilities: Financial liabilities towards healthcare can be addressed by opting for a reliable Individual Healthcare insurance plan.

Quality Healthcare Services: Insurance companies have a tie up with a vast network of hospitals. By opting for a health insurance plan you can get immediate medical attention at such hospitals.

Healthcare Expenses: A health plan safeguards your finances and protects you against losses due to rising medical costs.

How is it different from a Life Insurance Plan?

A life insurance plan offers a lump sum amount (sum assured) to your dependants (nominees) once you pass away. On the other hand, health insurance plans cover the cost of medical expenses.

What are the types of Health Plans?

There are primarily two types of Health Plans: Benefit and Indemnity Plans. While Benefit Plans provide a lump sum amount on being diagnosed with select critical illnesses, Indemnity Policies offer to reimburse your medical expenditure either through a cashless channel or 'pay-and-claim' method.

Complete Health Insurance - iHealth Plan

is a comprehensive plan designed to cover your healthcare expenses during emergencies thereby minimizing your financial burden.

What is Health Insurance?
An agreement between you and the Insurance Company wherein the company agrees to bear your healthcare and hospitalization expenses in lieu of a yearly charge known as premium.

Things to Consider Before Deciding the Coverage Amount:

• Number and Age of Policyholders
• Pre-existing Ailments

Unsure About The Coverage Amount?
Well, opt for the health plan along with a top up plan, in that case. Available at nominal rates, these plans (like Health Care Plus) offer to cover expenses in case your existing health care policy coverage proves to be inadequate

Quick Tip:
Well, opt for the health plan along with a top up plan, in that case. Available at nominal rates, these plans (like Health Care Plus) offer to cover expenses in case your existing health care policy coverage proves to be inadequate.

ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Kallakurichi, Tamil Nadu

Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

• Family Health Insurance
• Personal Accident Insurance 
• Top Up Health Insurance
• Arogya Sanjeevani Policy
• Corona Kavach Policy
• Senior Citizen Health Insurance
• Parents Health Insurance
• Children Health Insurance

which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Hosur, Tamil Nadu

Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

• Family Health Insurance
• Personal Accident Insurance 
• Top Up Health Insurance
• Arogya Sanjeevani Policy
• Corona Kavach Policy
• Senior Citizen Health Insurance
• Parents Health Insurance
• Children Health Insurance

which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Gobichettipalayam, Tamil Nadu

Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

• Family Health Insurance
• Personal Accident Insurance 
• Top Up Health Insurance
• Arogya Sanjeevani Policy
• Corona Kavach Policy
• Senior Citizen Health Insurance
• Parents Health Insurance
• Children Health Insurance

which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Erode, Tamil Nadu

Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

• Family Health Insurance
• Personal Accident Insurance 
• Top Up Health Insurance
• Arogya Sanjeevani Policy
• Corona Kavach Policy
• Senior Citizen Health Insurance
• Parents Health Insurance
• Children Health Insurance

which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Dindigul, Tamil Nadu

Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

• Family Health Insurance
• Personal Accident Insurance 
• Top Up Health Insurance
• Arogya Sanjeevani Policy
• Corona Kavach Policy
• Senior Citizen Health Insurance
• Parents Health Insurance
• Children Health Insurance

which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu

Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance policies :

• Family Health Insurance
• Personal Accident Insurance 
• Top Up Health Insurance
• Arogya Sanjeevani Policy
• Corona Kavach Policy
• Senior Citizen Health Insurance
• Parents Health Insurance
• Children Health Insurance

which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Devakottai, Tamil Nadu

Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

• Family Health Insurance
• Personal Accident Insurance 
• Top Up Health Insurance
• Arogya Sanjeevani Policy
• Corona Kavach Policy
• Senior Citizen Health Insurance
• Parents Health Insurance
• Children Health Insurance

which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu

Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance policies :

• Family Health Insurance
• Personal Accident Insurance 
• Top Up Health Insurance
• Arogya Sanjeevani Policy
• Corona Kavach Policy
• Senior Citizen Health Insurance
• Parents Health Insurance
• Children Health Insurance

which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

In case of planned or emergency hospitalisation, you may want to go to a hospital that’s in your vicinity. If the doctor who’s been treating you works at a particular hospital, chances are you would prefer that one over others.

In case of planned or emergency hospitalisation, you may want to go to a hospital that’s in your vicinity. If the doctor who’s been treating you works at a particular hospital, chances are you would prefer that one over others. Now, it may be possible that your health insurance company's hospital network doesn't cover your preferred hospital. Then, the only option you would have at hand is to make a reimbursement claim on your health insurance.

You might have too many doubts about a reimbursement claim that range from what is a reimbursement claim to what you can do to ensure a smooth and speedy settlement of your reimbursement claim. Hence, here we are to help you get acquainted with its complete process and further understand its intricacies.

When can you file a health insurance reimbursement claim?

In case of planned hospitalisation, you can inform us two days before admission, and in case of emergency hospitalisation, you need to inform us within 24 hours of hospitalisation.

Steps to raise a reimbursement health insurance claim

Unlike a cashless claim, you have to take the initiative when it comes to making a reimbursement claim. Here are the steps involved in a reimbursement claim process under our health insurance.

• Step 1: You intimate the claim

You can call our 24x7 toll-free number 1800 2666 or SMS ‘HEALTHCLAIM’ to 575758 (charge – ₹3 per SMS) or email us at ihealthcare@icicilombard.com to inform us about your hospitalization.

• Step 2: You get your papers ready

Once you have made the payment at the hospital, arrange all the documents chronologically. Start from the original bills for doctor’s consultation, X-ray, and other medical expenses to your discharge summary, medical reports, and hospital bill. With us, you can also include the bills of your medical expenses 30 days before hospitalisation and 60 days after.

• Step 3: You fill out & submit the claim form

Next, you’ll have to download the claim form from our website. Take a print, fill in the details in sections A, C, and D. Section B needs to be filled in by your treating doctor or the hospital. After that, sign on the claim form and also get it signed by your treating doctor.

• Step 4: We go through your claim request

Once you successfully submit all the documents, we’ll go through your claim request. Your claim can either be approved or turned down as per your policy coverage. There may also be a case where we ask for more documents from you to process your claim faster.

Till then you can track your claim status with your claim number on our website. If your claim is approved, we will transfer the claim amount into your bank account. If your claim is turned down, we’ll convey the reason for declining it.

Documents required for reimbursement health insurance claim

You will need to submit the claim along with the documents listed below. Those marked with an “*” are mandatory, and the rest will depend upon your claim request.

• Duly filled claim form*
• Original discharge summary/daycare summary*
• Original final hospital bill and other bills if any*
• Original payment receipts and other receipts supporting bills*
• Original investigation reports (Including ECG/ CT/ MRI/ USG/ HPE)*
• Original pharmacy bills*
• Original implant sticker/invoice
• Photocopy of doctor’s prescriptions*
• Photocopy of the consultation paper
• Photocopy of age proof (Driving license/ PAN card/ Passport/ Aadhar card)*
• Photocopy of indoor case paper
• EFT (Copy of cancelled cheque/self-attested ID poof/Bank-attested copy of passbook with IFSC code)*
• KYC (Copy of ID proof, Residence proof, & 2 passport-size photos) if the total claimed amount is more than ₹1 lakh

Things to keep in mind while filing a reimbursement claim in health insurance

To ensure you have a smooth and speedy reimbursement claim process, follow the below checklist:

• Check your hospital bill before you sign and pay it for any errors or unexplained extra charges.
• Collect all your receipts, reports and relevant documents from the hospital at the time of discharge.
• Also, collect any bills for medical expenses incurred 30 days before and 60 days after hospitalisation.
• Don’t forget to submit the mandatory documents along with other necessary proofs.
• Take time out to go through the policy inclusions and exclusions when you make a reimbursement claim to avoid any confusion at a later stage.

FAQs

1. What is a reimbursement claim?

In a reimbursement claim, you pay the hospitalisation expenses from your pocket, and the health insurance company later pays that amount to you, provided you submit all the necessary documents. You will have to apply for a reimbursement claim only if you choose to get your treatment done at a hospital which is not a part of your health insurance company’s hospital network or if you miss opting for a cashless claim.

2. How is a reimbursement claim different than a cashless claim?

A reimbursement claim can take longer to process than a cashless claim. For a reimbursement claim, you need to ensure you collect and submit all the documents and bills related to your hospitalisation. On the other hand, in a cashless claim, the empanelled hospital will do the job of sending your documents and bills to the insurance company, and the claim will be settled with them directly.

In a reimbursement claim, you have to wait till you get your money reimbursed from the insurance company, whereas in a cashless claim, the insurance company will pay it straight to the hospital. You will only have to bear the expenses that are excluded from your policy or are over your insured sum.

Since your insurance company does not have a tie-up with the hospital, your reimbursement claim will be thoroughly investigated. This may further delay your claim settlement. Cashless claims tend to get settled faster and in a hassle-free manner.

3. How long does a reimbursement claim take to process?

A Reimbursement claims are typically processed within 15–30 days after submission of all required documents.

4. Can I file a reimbursement claim for treatment at any hospital?

A Yes, you can file a reimbursement claim for treatments received at any hospital, regardless of whether it's part of your insurer's network, provided the treatment is covered under your policy.

5. What to do when my insurance claim is denied?

A If your claim is denied, review the insurer's reasons for denial, address any discrepancies or missing information, and consider appealing the decision if you believe it was unjustified.

Conclusion

Filing a reimbursement claim under your health insurance involves a series of well-defined steps. While making a reimbursement claim, you need to be careful about the coverage of your treatment and related expenses, especially under the health insurance policy for family. Your health insurance company can turn down your claim if your policy doesn't cover them.

Timely notifying your insurer, diligently collecting and submitting the necessary documents, and following the specified timelines are simple steps that save time later and ensure that the claim process is smooth. Always go through the documents to understand your policy's terms and maintain clear communication with your insurance provider to address any issues that may arise during the claim process.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.