Health Insurance in Chandigarh

Health Statistics of Chandigarh

These are some health statistics about Chandigarh:

• Chandigarh reports the 4th highest cases of diabetes in India.
• 28% of adults and 56% of older people in Chandigarh are either obese or overweight.
• 81% of people in Chandigarh hesitate to visit a mental health expert.
• 63% of men and 83% of women lead a sedentary lifestyle in Chandigarh.
• Approximately 42% of the people in Chandigarh report skin problems.

Why Do You Need Health Insurance in Chandigarh?

Here are some significant reasons why it is essential for everyone to purchase health insurance in Chandigarh:

1. Prevalence of Lifestyle Diseases

   Lifestyle diseases, such as cancer, obesity, heart disease, diabetes, etc., have been growing at an alarming rate in Chandigarh. In 2021, the city reported the highest number of obesity and overweight cases. Doctors believe the sedentary lifestyle of people to be the primary cause of various lifestyle diseases, including obesity and heart problems.

   Treating these lifestyle diseases can drain your savings as they are expensive and go on for a long time. For instance, diabetes-related expenses accounted for an average of 49% of the total family income in Chandigarh. However, you can obtain treatment for these diseases in Chandigarh without losing all your funds if you have a critical illness insurance policy.

2. Mental Disorders are a Big Concern

   Chandigarh reported a total of 91 suicides in the initial 8 months of 2023. Research has revealed that late-night internet use and chatting are major causes of depression and other mental disorders like anxiety, schizophrenia, etc. Besides, mental illness requires long-term treatment, which not everyone can afford. But what most people do not know is that mental illness is covered under all health insurance plans, including room rent, cost of diagnostic procedures, treatment costs, medications, etc.

   People also read: Does Health Insurance Cover Psychological Disorders?

3. Get Quality Medical Facilities

   Chandigarh boasts a robust medical infrastructure with advanced diagnostic centres and highly skilled healthcare professionals. These high-end healthcare facilities in Chandigarh are expensive and can put a financial burden. However, buying the best health insurance plan can help you access the best treatment without straining your finances.

4. Avail Cashless Treatment in Chandigarh

   In case of a medical emergency, arranging money to pay the hospital bills should be the last thing on your mind. With a mediclaim policy, you can make that possible by availing cashless treatment at any hospita in Chandigarh. By obtaining cashless treatment, you can focus on a quick recovery while your insurance company will take care of your medical bills.

Major Health Problems in Chandigarh

Take a look at some of the significant health problems in Chandigarh:

1. Diabetes

   Chandigarh reports more cases of diabetes than the national average estimate of 11.4%. As per a Lancet study, approximately 20.4% of people in the city have diabetes. Doctors attribute sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy eating habits and sleep patterns as the primary cause of diabetes in the city.

2. Mental Disorders

   Mental disorders are another common concern in Chandigarh. According to health experts, around 13% of the city's population above 18 years of age are suffering from mental disorders, such as depression, anxiety, alcohol and substance abuse, etc. Moreover, most people in Chandigarh lack knowledge about mental health and are hesitant to seek help from an expert.

3. Obesity

   Chandigarh is on the road to become the obesity capital of India. As per the Indian Council for Medical Research, about 13.6% of people in Chandigarh are obese, which is the highest in the country. Experts blame sedentary lifestyles and bad dietary habits for the high prevalence of obesity in the city.

4. Hypertension

   Another major health issue in Chandigarh is hypertension, also known as high blood pressure. In 2021, 50% of the older people in Chandigarh were diagnosed with hypertension. Lack of exercise, wrong food habits and sedentary lifestyles are some of the primary reasons for a surge in hypertension cases in the city.

5. Respiratory Illnesses

   Landfills pose a major health issue for people living in Chandigarh. Toxins released in the air are a leading cause of respiratory illnesses in the city, including asthma and bronchitis. In fact, the city hospitals were flooded with cases of respiratory illnesses in December 2022, thanks to the poor air quality.

How Much Health Insurance Coverage Do You Need in Chandigarh?

When selecting a health insurance policy in Chandigarh, it is essential to opt for a sum insured that ensures comprehensive coverage and sufficient financial protection. Experts say your coverage amount should be at least half of your annual income in Chandigarh. However, your coverage amount should be enough to cover the treatment cost of a critical illness like cancer.

The health infrastructure and medical facilities available in Chandigarh are expensive. Thus, opting for a minimum health insurance coverage of Rs 5-10 lakh per person is necessary. For complete family coverage in Chandigarh, it is advisable to consider a family floater health insurance plan with a minimum sum insured of Rs 20 lakh.

On the other hand, older people residing in Chandigarh should consider purchasing a senior citizen health insurance policy with a minimum coverage amount of Rs 15 lakh, as their healthcare requirements tend to increase with age.