Our health becomes a primary concern as we age, and the need for comprehensive healthcare coverage becomes paramount. With advancing years, the risk of age-related illnesses and health issues increases. You should focus on maintaining overall health to ensure your well-being during this phase of life. You should also acquire an appropriate health insurance policy. As healthcare costs rise and the likelihood of hospitalisation grows for senior citizens, specific attention must be given to health insurance tailored to their needs. You can cover medical expenses with a government health card for senior citizens. It also provides the peace of mind that financial assistance is available.
Government health insurance schemes for senior citizens
Government health insurance schemes for senior citizens offer a vital lifeline for the elderly. They ensures seniors’ health needs are met even in their golden years. These programs address the unique healthcare challenges of ageing and provide an identity proof through a health card for senior citizens. Here are some of the health insurance schemes for senior citizens:
- Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Yojana (PMABY)
This prominent scheme offers health insurance worth up to 5 lakh rupees per family per year. This coverage extends to both public and private hospitals across India, easing access to quality healthcare. PMABY is especially beneficial for families below the poverty line, offering relief from the burden of high medical costs.
- United India Senior Citizen Health Insurance
This scheme is tailored for individuals aged 61 to 80 years, addressing the specific health concerns of this age group. With sum insured options ranging from 1 to 3 lakh, it covers hospitalisation expenses for treatments exceeding 24 hours. A 5% family discount on the premium makes this scheme even more attractive for senior citizens and their families.
- Varistha Mediclaim Policy For Senior Citizens
The Varistha Mediclaim Policy targets citizens aged 60 to 80 years, providing sum insured options of 1 lakh and 2 lakh. It covers hospitalisation expenses, critical illness treatments, and even pre-existing conditions like diabetes and hypertension. This scheme offers holistic protection. Moreover, its cashless treatment options within a network of hospitals provide convenience of treatment to the elderly.
- Health of Privileged Elders (HOPE)
For holistic well-being, this program focuses on Indians aged 60 and above. With sum insured options from 1 lakh to 5 lakhs, it covers specific diseases and treatments. While a co-payment of 20% is required during hospitalisation, the program includes coverage for Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy treatments, promoting holistic healthcare.
- The New India Assurance Senior Citizen Mediclaim Policy
This policy addresses the health needs of those aged 60 to 80 years. Covering hospitalisation expenses and treatments, it offers coverage for pre-existing conditions after a waiting period and optional coverage for Ayurveda, Homoeopathy and Unani treatments.