We generally buy health insurance policies so that we can keep our financial savings intact in case of medical emergencies. However, most health policies require that one should be hospitalised in order to file a claim.
So then, what about those times when we don’t require hospitalisation but just a few stitches at the outpatient department? Even such minor treatments cost in thousands due to inflation and rising medical costs. Paying OPD treatment charges from your pocket can effectively drain you of your monthly expenses.
Can your health insurance plan come into use to protect you from this financial loss? How is it included in your health plan? Find out the answers in the following article.
Does Health Insurance Cover Outpatient Treatment Costs?
Yes, health insurance policies cover outpatient treatment costs, provided you opt for OPD coverage. This OPD cover is an add-on that you can add to your existing health policy so that you can save the cost incurred during your visits to the outpatient department for minor medical treatments and doctor consultations.
An OPD cover can be added to individual health insurance for financial coverage in case of outpatient consultations, minor treatments, etc.
What Does Outpatient Treatment Cover Mean?
An OPD refers to an outpatient department in a hospital, where generally patients go to consult doctors in order to begin treatment. There is no requirement for the patient to be hospitalised, but they can visit any of the associated facilities such as the consultation room, pharmacy, diagnosis, etc.
The cost incurred for such consultations is known as outpatient treatment cost, and this can be heavy on your pocket unless you have an outpatient treatment cover added to your health policy.
Outpatient Treatment Cover – Inclusions
- Doctor consultations
- Prescription drugs
- Dental treatments
- Diagnostic tests
Benefits of Health Insurance Outpatient Cover
- It lowers the expenses for patients who are required to visit the outpatient departments frequently.
- Since diagnostic charges are also included under OPD cover, patients can get these tests done without any delay and without paying out of pocket.
- The cost of medicines is also rising due to inflation, and with an OPD cover, you can combat the bills of such expensive medicines.
- It also reduces the additional financial burden for those with chronic ailments or pre-existing illnesses who are required to visit doctors and buy medicines on a frequent basis.
Who Should Purchase Health Insurance with Outpatient Coverage?
- Families with young children – Families with young children often require regular medical attention, including routine paediatric check-ups, vaccinations, and treatments for common ailments like colds, fevers, or minor injuries.
- Senior Citizens – Since individuals belonging to this age group are more prone to infections and illnesses due to their low immunity, they may have to frequently visit the doctor for medicines and treatments.
- Fitness Enthusiasts – Individuals belonging to this category may not fall ill but may suffer from workout-related injuries for which they will need to visit the OPD.
Conclusion
Whether you suffer from a minor injury or a major ailment, ignoring any physical pain can only make things worse for you. With OPD cover added to your health insurance, you can ensure that a good amount of money is saved when it comes to random minor medical situations.