While in-patient medical expenses are comparatively higher than outpatient costs, the higher frequency of outpatient visits can disrupt ‌finances. Outpatient Department (OPD) cover is commonly available with most health insurance policies and can turn out to be a lifesaver when it comes to saving on medical expenses incurred without hospitalisation. In recent years, OPD benefits have garnered a lot of interest. OPD in health insurance has become increasingly significant in India and for good reason. Let’s find out more about this critical health insurance add-on.
What is OPD Cover in Health Insurance?
Health insurance has an important place in our modern lives but sadly it’s only built to cover the medical expenses incurred during hospitalisation. What happens if you have to receive a treatment that doesn’t involve hospitalisation? Enter OPD cover, a shield to safeguard you from unexpected medical expenses that don’t require an overnight stay in ‌hospital. These include:
Doctor consultations: Regular visits to general practitioners or specialists for routine check-ups, follow-ups, or specific health concerns.
Diagnostic tests: Laboratory tests, X-rays, MRI scans, and other diagnostic procedures.
Pharmacy bills: Costs of prescribed medications and treatments.
Minor procedures: Small surgical procedures or treatments that can be performed in a clinic without the need for hospitalisation.
Why is OPD Cover Important?
Lowers out-of-pocket expenses: Foremost, OPD covers the expenses incurred during hospital visits for ailments as basic as a fever, stomach ache and infection.
Preventive care: Where health is concerned it’s best to be proactive. OPD cover takes care of all the expenses related to diagnostic tests, doctor visits, x-rays, pharmacy expenses and physiotherapy.
Flexibility: OPD cover accords you a lot of flexibility, which means you can get medical treatment without worrying about hospitalisation.
Financial planning: By covering day-to-day medical expenses, OPD benefits provideÂ
better financial planning and reduce the financial burden on individuals and families.
Exclusions of OPD Cover in Health Insurance in India
While OPD cover offers extensive coverage, certain conditions are not covered. Like,
Pre-existing conditions
Cosmetic procedures
Rejuvenation facilities
Cost of spectacles, lenses, implants, hearing aids, prosthetics etc.
OPD treatment outside India
Self-inflicted injuries
Non-prescribed medications or treatments
Dental treatment
Sterility and infertility
Non-medical expenses
Things to Remember Before Purchasing OPD Health Insurance Plans
There are several you should consider while investing in OPD cover. Such as:
Coverage size: The OPD cover should be adequate to cover all your necessary expenses
Limit: For how long does the coverage last - annually or a lifetime?
Waiting period: Is there a waiting period before ‌coverage kicks in?
Premium: Your health insurance plan should justify the benefits of OPD cover
Who Should Buy OPD Cover?
Although OPD cover is a beneficial add-on to have for all, certain people would find it vital.
People aged between 24 years to 40 years would benefit from in-patient services more than outpatient services
Fitness enthusiasts
Senior citizens who would require regular minor surgeries
Employees with group medical insurance can upgrade their plan with OPD cover
Conclusion
OPD benefits in health insurance are becoming an essential feature for managing healthcare expenses effectively in India. With the rising cost of medical services and the need for regular medical care, OPD coverage offers significant financial relief and promotes preventive healthcare. As more people become aware of the advantages of OPD insurance, it is expected to become a standard inclusion in health insurance policies in India.Â
