Understanding the Pre-Medical Tests in Health Insurance Plan

One of the major features that have been impacted the most is the provision of the pre-medical test in the case of the health insurance industry. In order to understand the changes that have occurred in the provision of the pre-medical test, we need to first take a look at what actually are these examinations and how do they function in real-time? 

What are the Pre-Medical Examinations?

Pre-medical examinations or tests refer to a series of medical inspections carried out by professional doctors to assess the real-time condition of the applicant. The tests actually constitute a major part of purchasing the health insurance policy. Most of the Mediclaim providers have a pre-requisite of undergoing a mandatory examination before the issuance of a health insurance policy. 

Typically, the coverage offered by the provider is directly proportional to the number of tests conducted by medical practitioners. Furthermore, the tests are mostly carried out on the basis of the age of the applicant and the coverage of the plan. Based on the common trend most people either look for plans that offer coverage without medical examinations or try to surpass the tests mainly due to lack of awareness.

Benefits of Undergoing Pre-Medical Examination

Undergoing medical examinations is vital for both the provider and the applicant due to numerous reasons. Here’s a quick rundown -

Reduced Chances of Claim Denial

There is a plethora of providers that offer Mediclaim policies without undergoing a medical examination. Initially, this might appear tempting but can lead to serious complications at the time of filing a claim. Purchasing a health insurance policy without going for a pre-medical test basically means that the disclosure of health conditions is solely dependent on the applicant.

The best part about pre-medical tests is that they provide a detailed insight into the health condition of the applicant to the provider. Considering the medical conditions of the applicant the chances of claim denial later are reduced substantially. Therefore, in order to ensure smooth claim settlement, applicants should try and opt for best health insurance plans that have a provision of mandatory pre-medical examination. 

Discounts in Premium

Applicants who choose to undergo pre-medical examinations, before approval of a health insurance plan, have a financial benefit in the form of a discount*. Applicants that have a decent health status in the medical test can apply for discounts in the payable premium as the probability of making the claim is reduced extensively.

*All savings are provided by the insurer as per the IRDAI approved insurance plan. Standard T&C apply.

Coverage against Pre-existing Ailments

Another major benefit of choosing health insurance plans that require applicants to undergo pre-medical tests before approval of Mediclaim is coverage against pre-existing ailments. Typically, if you have a pre-existing ailment the provider will offer coverage against them after a certain waiting period. However, contrary to this if your illness is diagnosed during pre-medical tests then you might have to pay an additional premium, but you will be covered right from the beginning.

Real-Time Status of Health

Most of the time illnesses strike us in the least expected times, which lead to emotional and financial turmoil. Howevr, undergoing a pre-medical test ensures that the applicant is well aware of their illnesses and health status, which helps them to seek the right treatment at the right time.

Obtaining Adequate Coverage 

Pre-medical tests act as an important tool that helps the applicant to opt for an adequate amount of coverage based on the status of their health. With this, the applicant and the family members can get the right coverage without any doubt or second thought. 

Changes in the Provision of Pre-Medical Tests Due to COVID-19

As mentioned earlier COVID-19 has turned economies upside down and entirely transformed the way most of us lived a life before this pandemic. This has impacted the health insurance industry and especially the provision of pre-medical tests. With medical facilities become more and more restricted most of the health insurance providers are either issuing Mediclaim policies with tests or basic tests that are conducted at the applicants’ place.

There has been no cure or treatment for COVID-19, which makes the situation even more challenging. Considering the fact that physical distancing is the only way to prevent one from the wrath of coronavirus more and more providers are reluctant to carry out pre-medical tests as it might lead to an outbreak. 

Common Pre-Medical Tests 

Here is a rundown on some of the common pre-medical tests:

• CBC (Complete Blood Count)
• Blood Sugar
• ECG
• Lipid Profile 
• Thyroid
• BP
• Urine and Stool Test

In a Nutshell!

In most cases, these tests are carried out at partnered labs to ensure transparency. Pre-medical tests are the right choice to make. However, taking the current situation of the pandemic into consideration it becomes vital to practice social distancing and wearing masks when undergoing these tests.