scorecardresearchDengue and malaria cases spike in Delhi; why is health insurance crucial

Dengue and malaria cases spike in Delhi; why is health insurance crucial in such times?

Updated: 21 Jul 2023, 10:55 AM IST
TL;DR.

As disease outbreaks can happen unexpectedly, it is advisable to invest in health insurance well in advance to safeguard yourself and your family's health in times of need.

Stagnant water resulting from floods provides the perfect breeding environment for mosquitoes that carry diseases like dengue and malaria.

Stagnant water resulting from floods provides the perfect breeding environment for mosquitoes that carry diseases like dengue and malaria.

The monsoon season brings much-needed relief from the scorching heat, but it also brings with it the risk of water-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria. Unfortunately, flooding due to heavy rains provides an ideal breeding ground for disease-carrying mosquitoes, leading to a surge in the number of cases in the country

In times like these, having health insurance becomes crucial to safeguarding your well-being and financial stability. This article explores the reasons why health insurance is essential during these circumstances.

What is the impact of floods on dengue and malaria?

Stagnant water resulting from floods provides the perfect breeding environment for mosquitoes that carry diseases like dengue and malaria. With an increase in the mosquito population, the risk of contracting these diseases rises significantly.

Moreover, floods can cause severe damage to infrastructure, leading to water contamination and disruption of essential services. This, coupled with the stress and trauma of dealing with floods, can weaken people's immune systems, making them more susceptible to infections.

Furthermore, a sudden surge in dengue and malaria cases puts immense pressure on healthcare facilities in the city. Hospitals may be overwhelmed, leading to longer waiting times and potential delays in treatment.

Why is health insurance important during these times?

Financial protection

Treatment for dengue and malaria can be expensive, especially if hospitalisation is required. Health insurance provides financial protection by covering medical expenses, including hospitalisation, doctor's fees, medicines, and diagnostic tests, reducing the burden on your pocket.

Access to quality healthcare

With health insurance, policyholders have access to a network of hospitals and healthcare providers. This ensures that you can receive timely and quality medical care during an outbreak, without worrying about the costs.

Coverage for pre and post-hospitalisation expenses

Health insurance typically covers not only hospitalisation expenses but also pre and post-hospitalisation costs. This means expenses incurred before and after hospitalisation, such as diagnostic tests and follow-up consultations, are also covered.

Cashless hospitalisation

Many health insurance policies offer the benefit of cashless hospitalisation, where the insurer directly settles the medical bills with the hospital. This facility ensures that you can focus on your recovery without the hassle of arranging immediate funds.

No-claim bonus and add-on covers

Health insurance policies often come with a no-claim bonus, which rewards policyholders for not making any claims during a policy year. Additionally, you can opt for add-on covers like critical illness or vector-borne disease covers to enhance your protection during disease outbreaks.

Family coverage

Health insurance can provide coverage for your entire family, including dependent parents and children. This ensures that your loved ones are also protected during a health crisis. 

Additionally, health insurance policies generally offer lifelong renewability, ensuring that you can continue to enjoy coverage even in your old age when the risk of health issues is higher.

As disease outbreaks can happen unexpectedly, it is advisable to invest in health insurance well in advance to safeguard yourself and your family's health in times of need. Remember, health is wealth, and health insurance is a wise investment to secure both.

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First Published: 21 Jul 2023, 10:55 AM IST