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  • List of Cashless Network Hospital in Wardha

    by Almog Ramrajkar | Jun 22, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Wardha, Maharashtra

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

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

  • Symptoms of Depression in Men

    by Almog Ramrajkar | Jun 22, 2023

    Depression is a serious issue that can impact anyone’s life. Men exhibit signs of depression differently compared to women. They often show irritability, anger, or aggression instead of sadness. They may also use substance abuse or show signs of risky behaviour as coping mechanisms. We must recognise these symptoms, as untreated depression can result in job loss, relationship problems, and suicidal thoughts. By understanding the symptoms of depression in men, we can also encourage them to seek help.

    Let us try to understand the tell-tale signs related to depression in men, as it will help us reach out to the person.

    List of Symptoms of Depression in Men

    Here is a list of signs of depression in men indicating they need the necessary support.

    • Men with depression may experience a constant low mood that affects their overall outlook on life. They experience persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness.
    • Rather than expressing sadness, men may manifest their depression through irritability, increased anger, or aggressive behaviour.
    • They may also become overly sensitive to criticism or rejection, perceiving it as a personal attack.
    • Loss of pleasure in hobbies/activities once enjoyed is also a sign of depression. Hobbies, sports, and socialising may lose appeal, and men may need help to derive enjoyment from previously enjoyable activities.
    • Depression can drain an individual’s energy levels, leaving men constantly tired and lacking motivation.
    • They may experience cognitive difficulties concentrating, making decisions, or remembering important information.
    • Changes in appetite or weight are major signs of depression. Look for significant changes in appetite, resulting in weight loss or gain.
    • Insomnia, difficulty falling or staying asleep, or excessive sleeping can all be symptoms of depression.
    • Men may also experience physical ailments such as headaches, stomachaches, or back pain without a clear medical cause when depressed.
    • Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or self-blame are also symptoms of depression. Men often question their self-worth and harbour guilt or self-blame when depressed.
    • Withdrawal from social activities, friends, and family is linked to depression in men. They may isolate themselves and withdraw from social interactions, preferring to spend time alone.
    • Depression can impact a man’s ability to fulfil his obligations at work or home, leading to neglect of responsibilities.
    • Some men may engage in risky behaviours, such as excessive gambling, substance abuse, or reckless driving, to cope with depression.
    • People may turn to alcohol or drugs as a form of self-medication to numb their emotions and alleviate their depressive symptoms.
    • Depression may give rise to feelings of hopelessness and despair in severe cases. Men may contemplate suicide or even attempt it.

    If you find any signs of depression in a person, you must encourage him to seek guidance from a mental health professional.

  • What is Major Depressive Disorder?

    by Almog Ramrajkar | Jun 22, 2023

    MDD or Major Depressive Disorder, also referred to as major depression, is a severe mental illness characterised by the presence of persistent and intense feelings of hopelessness and sadness and a loss of interest/pleasure in daily activities. MDD goes beyond typical mood swings and can significantly impact an individual’s ability to function effectively in various areas of his/her life. Symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder include changes in appetite and sleep patterns, difficulty concentrating, persistent fatigue, recurrent thoughts of suicide or death, and feelings of guilt or worthlessness. It is essential to seek professional diagnosis and treatment for Major Depressive Disorder, as it affects a substantial number of individuals worldwide and can have profound effects on their overall well-being.

    Symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder or Clinical Depression

    To understand what is Major Depressive Disorder, let’s look at the symptoms closely.

    • Persistent feelings of sadness/emptiness/hopelessness
    • Loss of interest/pleasure in previously enjoyed tasks/hobbies
    • Significant loss/gain in weight or changes in one’s appetite
    • Insomnia or excessive sleeping
    • Fatigue or loss of energy
    • Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
    • Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering details
    • Restlessness or slowed movements and speech
    • Recurrent thoughts of death, suicide, or self-harm 
    • Physical symptoms like headaches, digestive problems, or chronic pain without any known cause
    • Withdrawal from social activities and/or avoiding family and friends
    • Irritability, frustration, or anger, even over minor issues
    • Cognitive impairment, such as difficulty thinking clearly or focusing on tasks
    • Difficulty completing daily activities or fulfilling responsibilities
    • Feelings of numbness or emptiness and emotional detachment
    • Fatigue, marked changes in appetite and sleep patterns, and a lack of concentration are common symptoms
    • The frequency, duration, and intensity of mood swings can vary among individuals; periods of stability may occur between episodes

    A mental health professional can offer therapy and counselling services tailored to address Major Depressive Disorder symptoms. One should seek medical advice to recover properly and get back to leading a normal social life.

  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in New Delhi

    by Almog Ramrajkar | Jun 21, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in New Delhi

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

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

  • List of Cashless Network Hospital in Yavatmal

    by Almog Ramrajkar | Jun 21, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Yavatmal, Maharashtra

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance policies :

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

  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Gondia

    by Almog Ramrajkar | Jun 19, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Gondia, Maharashtra

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

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

  • List of Cashless Network Hospital in Chandrapur

    by Almog Ramrajkar | Jun 19, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Chandrapur, Maharashtra

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

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

  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Dhule

    by Almog Ramrajkar | Jun 16, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Dhule, Maharashtra

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

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

  • List of Cashless Network Hospital in Chiplun

    by Almog Ramrajkar | Jun 16, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Chiplun, Maharashtra

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

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

  • List of Cashless Network Hospital in Jalna

    by Almog Ramrajkar | Jun 15, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Jalna, Maharashtra

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

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

  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Bhusawal

    by Almog Ramrajkar | Jun 14, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Bhusawal, Maharashtra

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

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

  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals List in Bhandara

    by Almog Ramrajkar | Jun 13, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Bhandara, Maharashtra

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance policies :

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

  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Beed

    by Almog Ramrajkar | Jun 12, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Beed, Maharashtra

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

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

  • Cashless Network Hospitals in Aurangabad

    by Almog Ramrajkar | Jun 12, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Aurangabad, Maharashtra

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans:

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

  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Baramati

    by Almog Ramrajkar | Jun 06, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Baramati, Maharashtra

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

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

  • Cashless Network Hospital in Amravati

    by Almog Ramrajkar | Jun 05, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Amravati, Maharashtra

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

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

  • What is the Waiting Period for Cancer Insurance?

    by Almog Ramrajkar | May 24, 2023

    Cancer insurance is an add-on that provides coverage explicitly for cancer-related costs. It complements your regular healthcare insurance by offering additional financial protection against the high costs associated with cancer diagnosis and treatment. The cancer policy waiting period is an important aspect of cancer insurance, which determines how soon a policyholder can start making coverage claims after purchasing the plan.  

    In this post, we will explore all about the cancer policy waiting period and why you should take note of the same while purchasing cancer insurance.

    What is Cancer Insurance?

    Cancer insurance is a type of voluntary, condition-specific additional health coverage that pays out a lump sum to policyholders diagnosed with carcinoma. It covers the costs accompanying cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, medications, hospital stays, and other related expenses that a standard health insurance plan may not cover. It can also help cover indirect costs like lost wages, transportation, and childcare, which can add up quickly during cancer treatment.

    Waiting Period for Cancer Insurance

    A waiting period is a specific timeframe that a policyholder must wait after purchasing a cancer insurance policy before the person can start making coverage claims. The cancer health insurance waiting period varies depending on the insurance company and the policy.

    Here are certain fundamental points to comprehend about the waiting period for cancer insurance:

    • Waiting period length:

    The waiting period for cancer insurance typically ranges from 30 to 90 days, although it can be longer in some cases.

    • Inception date:

    The cancer policy waiting period begins on the policy’s inception date, which is the date the policy becomes effective after purchase.

    • No coverage during the waiting period:

    Policyholders are not eligible to make coverage claims during the cancer insurance waiting period. This means the policy will not cover any cancer-related expenses incurred during the waiting period, and the policyholder must pay for all expenses during this time.

    • Pre-existing conditions:

    Waiting periods for cancer insurance may be specific to some pre-existing conditions. This means that if a policyholder has a pre-existing condition, the person may have to wait for a more extended period before making claims for cancer coverage.

    Reasons to Buy Cancer Insurance

    There are several reasons why individuals may choose to purchase cancer insurance. Here are certain factors to ponder:

    • Financial protection:

    Cancer treatment can be incredibly expensive, and even with regular health insurance, there may be out-of-pocket costs that can quickly add up. Cancer insurance can provide additional financial protection by covering expenditures that are not covered by regular health insurance plans, helping to alleviate the financial burden associated with cancer treatment.

    • Income replacement:

    Cancer treatment may require time off from work for treatment and recovery, which can result in lost wages. Cancer insurance can provide income replacement benefits, helping policyholders to maintain their financial stability during their journey to recovery.

    • Flexibility:

    Cancer insurance benefits are typically paid out as a lump sum or ongoing benefits, providing policyholders with flexibility in how they use the funds. Policyholders can utilise the funds to cover a wide range of expenses, including medical bills, transportation costs, childcare, or even taking time off work to focus on recovery.

    • Peace of mind:

    Dealing with a cancer diagnosis can be emotionally and mentally challenging. Having cancer insurance in place can provide peace of mind, knowing that there is an additional layer of financial protection in case of a cancer diagnosis.

    Cancer insurance is an add-on health insurance policy that provides coverage for expenses related to the ailment. The waiting period for cancer insurance is the timeframe that a policyholder must wait after purchasing the policy before he/she can start making coverage claims. Understanding the cancer policy waiting period and other details is important when considering cancer insurance.
  • What is a no claim bonus in health insurance?

    by Almog Ramrajkar | May 19, 2023

    Health insurance is a significant aspect of financial planning, providing coverage for medical expenses and safeguarding against unforeseen health-related emergencies.  One such feature is the no claim bonus (NCB) in health insurance. Many health insurance policies offer this unique feature to reward policyholders for staying healthy and not making any claims during a policy year.

    In this post, we will explore what the no claim bonus in health insurance is, how it works, and the benefits it provides.

    Explaining no claim bonus

    No claim bonus in health insurance is typically a discount or additional benefit provided by health insurance companies to policyholders who do not make any claims during a policy year. It is a form of appreciation or reward for maintaining good health and not utilising insurance coverage for medical expenses. NCB is typically offered as a percentage of the premium amount and added to the sum insured, resulting in an increased coverage amount without an additional premium cost. Sometimes NCB is also awarded as a discount in the premium amount.

    How does no claim bonus work?

    Health insurance no claim bonus works on the principle of rewarding policyholders for not filing any claims during the tenure of a policy. If a policyholder does not make any claim during the policy’s term, the insurer offers a certain percentage of the sum insured as an NCB at the time of policy renewal. Some insurance providers offer the NCB as a discount on the premium instead of an increase in coverage. The percentage of NCB may vary from one insurance company to another and can range from 5% to 50% and sometimes even more, depending on the policy’s terms and conditions.

    Note that the no claim bonus is not cumulative and does not carry forward if not utilised during the policy period. Instead, it goes on increasing as a percentage amount every year till 5 continuous years of no claim. Once you make a claim for your health insurance coverage, the no claim bonus gets exhausted.

    However, some insurers offer add-ons called “No Claim Bonus Protection Cover”, which allows policyholders to retain their health insurance no claim bonus even if they make a claim during the policy period. Policyholders can buy this add-on by paying a nominal additional premium.

    Benefits of No Claim Bonus in Health Insurance

    The major benefits of no claim bonus in health insurance are listed below.

    • Increased coverage:

    One of the primary benefits of the NCB in health insurance is the increased coverage amount without any additional premium cost.

    • Incentives for healthy lifestyle:

    No Claim Bonus acts as an incentive for policyholders to maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid making claims for minor health issues.

    • Cost savings:

    No claim bonus can result in cost savings as policyholders can continue getting the same coverage at a discounted cost. Policyholders who do not make any claims can avail of the benefits of health insurance with no claim bonus year after year, resulting in substantial savings on the overall premium cost.

    Insurers offer a no claim bonus to policyholders for not raising a claim during a policy year as an increase in coverage or sum insured or a discount on the premium. The no claim bonus feature in medical insurance encourages policyholders to adopt a healthy lifestyle and go for regular preventive check-ups.


    Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.
  • Accident and Critical Illness Insurance Explained

    by Almog Ramrajkar | May 19, 2023

    While health insurance covers medical expenses for various situations, it generally does not include personal accident and critical illness insurance. Personal accident insurance covers accidental injuries and provides compensation in case of any mishaps. Critical illness cover provides a lump sum payout upon diagnosis of specific life-threatening diseases. Each policy has its advantages and limitations. Thus, you need to take time and analyse your requirements to choose the best applicable one.

    What is Accident Cover in Health Insurance?

    Standard health insurance policies do not include personal accident coverage. Therefore, you must opt for a personal accident insurance plan to get coverage.

    Personal accident insurance is a form of insurance that covers the costs or damages caused by a traffic accident. This type of policy offers compensation in the event of the insured’s permanent total disability or demise resulting from a road accident. You might want to contemplate purchasing a personal accident insurance policy for various reasons. Some benefits of personal accident cover include coverage for hospitalisation expenses, accidental death and disability, ensuring financial security for your loved ones, as well as worldwide coverage.

    You can opt for coverage for terrorism as an optional add-on with a personal accident insurance policy. Thus, it is necessary to verify the specifics of the coverage with the insurer prior to purchasing an accident insurance policy.

    What is Critical Illness Cover in Health Insurance?

    If you receive a critical illness diagnosis, the policy provides a lump sum payout that you can utilise to cover the costly expenses associated with hospitalisation, doctor's consultation fees, medication, ambulance charges, room rent, pre- and post-hospitalisation expenses, as well as loss of income caused by the illness. This payout is in addition to your Mediclaim or health insurance policies.

    Without a critical illness cover, paying for treatment costs can put a burden on your family and erode years of savings in just a few months. In addition, this insurance offers the option to receive a monthly income in case of diagnosis. When selecting a policy, consider the sum assured, age, critical illnesses covered, renewal limit, and inclusions and exclusions.

    Having a critical illness cover can provide you with the financial support you need at the right time and help keep your other savings intact for their respective objectives.

    Is PA and Critical Illness Cover Already Included in Health Insurance Plan?

    The following are the important aspects of the accident and critical illness insurance compared to health insurance.

    • Personal accident insurance is an optional coverage you can purchase alongside a health or motor insurance policy. This coverage provides protection against injuries resulting from an accident and necessitates an extra premium.
    • The sum insured for health insurance can range from Rs 5-50 lakh or beyond, while personal accident insurance can range from Rs 2.5 lakh to 1 crore.
    • Health insurance may have a waiting period of 9 months to 4 years, while personal accident insurance has no waiting period.
    • You can widen the scope of your primary healthcare plan by purchasing personal accident coverage as an add-on to include the entire cost of medical treatment for injuries related to accidents.
    • Health insurance and critical illness policies are different types of insurance plans. Health insurance covers medical and outpatient expenses during hospitalisation but may not cover all diseases and has a more extended waiting period. On the other hand, critical illness policy covers specific life-threatening diseases and provides a lump sum upon diagnosis.
    • Health insurance covers a broader range of ailments, while a critical illness policy provides coverage for a specified list of critical illnesses. Both policies have their advantages and limitations and need to be purchased separately. The sum assured value varies between insurers, and waiting periods apply to both policies.
  • Waiting period in maternity health insurance

    by Almog Ramrajkar | May 19, 2023

    Being a mom-to-be is undoubtedly one of the most awe-inspiring experiences a woman can have, but with it comes a significant financial responsibility that can be daunting for many expectant mothers.

    Maternity healthcare can be quite expensive, and without proper insurance coverage, it can be a significant financial burden on families.

    This is where maternity health insurance comes in, providing coverage for various expenses related to pregnancy and childbirth. However, it’s essential to understand the waiting period associated with such policies and how they can impact coverage.

    What is the waiting period for maternity insurance?

    The waiting period for maternity insurance is when the policyholder cannot claim any benefits related to pregnancy, childbirth, or postnatal care. This period prevents immediate claims after a policy is purchased, ensuring the insurance system remains sustainable and fair. Typically, the waiting period for maternity insurance in India ranges from 9 to 24 months, depending on the specific plan chosen.

    Why is the waiting period in pregnancy insurance helpful?

    While the waiting period for medical insurance might seem like a hurdle, it serves several beneficial purposes:

    • Financial planning:

      For couples who are planning a family in the near future, buying maternity insurance in advance allows them to pass the waiting period without any stress. This ensures that expectant parents are able to plan their finances and make the most of the benefits offered by the insurance.
    • Affordable premiums:

      The waiting period allows the insurance provider to ensure that there are no immediate high-cost claims involved and also helps lower premium costs for the policyholder.
    • Prevent adverse selection:

      If all policyholders purchase maternity insurance immediately before childbirth, this may discourage the insurance providers and lead to reduced maternity benefits or an end of the policy altogether. By mandating a waiting period, insurance companies make sure that maternity insurance remains a positive practice and is affordable for a larger number of people.

    Types of waiting periods in maternity health insurance

    Maternity health insurance policies may encompass various types of waiting periods, each serving a distinct purpose:

    1. Initial waiting period

      The initial waiting period is the time between the policy’s start date and when the policyholder becomes eligible to claim maternity benefits. It is at least a minimum of 30 days. The maternity cover waiting period is the time between the end of the initial waiting period and the start of the coverage for maternity expenses. This period usually lasts for 9 months to 6 years.
    2. Pre-existing disease waiting period

      Some policies may also have waiting periods for pre-existing diseases. This waiting period is between the policy’s start date and when the coverage begins for medical conditions that existed before the policy’s start date. The duration of this waiting period can range from 2 to 4 years.
    3. Specific disease waiting period

      This waiting period is the time between the policy’s start date and when the coverage begins for specific medical conditions or procedures. The duration of this waiting is generally a minimum of 2 years. Unfortunately, maternity insurance coverage with no waiting period is not available in India.
    4. Maternity waiting period

      Maternity health insurance plans in India may have various waiting periods, each with its duration and purpose. This period can be anywhere between 9 to 24 months. The policyholder must wait for this time before claiming benefits related to pregnancy and childbirth.

    Conclusion

    Maternity health insurance is a vital aspect of planning for the financial aspects of pregnancy and childbirth. It’s important to note that the eligibility criteria for maternity health insurance may vary across insurance companies and policies. Hence, it’s crucial to carefully review and understand the policy's terms and conditions before deciding to purchase it.


    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 a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. 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.

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