Children health insurance

Whether it’s quality education, a fulfilling life, or happy relationships—parents work tirelessly to build a bright future for their children. Yet, all these dreams hinge on your child’s good health. Just like you plan for their education, marriage, and the future, securing their health is equally important.

Children’s health insurance is a thoughtful step toward protecting your child’s well-being and ensuring your peace of mind. It offers financial protection against unexpected medical expenses, allowing you to focus on your little one’s recovery without worrying about costs. Because every child is unique, health insurance plans for children are designed to provide them with the best medical treatment that suits their needs.

Discover how a child health insurance plan can be your child’s guardian angel.

What is a child health insurance plan?

Health insurance for children is a financial safeguard that offers monetary support to the parents when their child becomes ill, gets injured, or is diagnosed with a disease. It covers healthcare expenses incurred due to hospitalisation, pre- and post-hospitalisation, routine check-ups, medication, diagnostic tests, and vaccination of children. Some health insurance for kids may also include daycare procedures or ambulance charges.

These children’s plans can provide coverage for different ages:

  - Medical Insurance for newborns (birth - 90 days)

It covers the child from the day of birth. Only a few insurers provide coverage from day one since it is often included in maternity health insurance plans.

  - Medical insurance for infants and teenagers (for more than 90 days)

Most insurers cover children after 90 days of birth, offering protection against common childhood illnesses and accidents.

There are two primary ways to secure health insurance for kids: a standalone child health insurance plan or a family floater policy. A standalone plan provides dedicated coverage for your child. On the other hand, health insurance plans for a family with a floater will cover the entire family under a single sum insured.

Importance of children’s health Insurance

It’s difficult to predict children’s health; one moment they might be brimming with energy, and the next they could fall ill. Children’s health insurance acts as a financial safety net. It helps you provide the best possible care for your child without worrying about the financial burden.

In fact, child health insurance is not just about financial protection; its benefits go beyond that. Since it also promotes preventive care through regular check-ups, vaccinations, and screenings, your child can lead a healthy life.

Additionally, many plans offer coverage for developmental screenings and therapies, supporting your child's overall growth and well-being. By investing in a child health insurance plan, you're not just securing their present health but also investing in their future.

It ensures that children have access to quality healthcare throughout their childhood and beyond. 

Why should you buy health insurance for children?

Children are bundles of energy, constantly exploring their world. While this curiosity fuels their growth, it also exposes them to a higher risk of accidents and illnesses. Unforeseen medical expenses due to such incidents can be a significant financial burden for any parent.

This is where medical insurance for newborns and older children becomes indispensable.

  - Protecting Against Unforeseen Medical Expenses

Unlike adults, children have developing immune systems, making them more susceptible to infections and diseases. The costs of medical treatment can quickly escalate from common colds to serious ailments. Comprehensive insurance for children becomes a safety net, enabling you to provide the best possible care for your child without financial worry.

  - Safeguarding Against Accidents

Accidents are an inevitable part of childhood. Your child’s natural curiosity and adventurous spirit may lead to falls, cuts, bruises, and fractures. While most injuries are minor, some may require medical attention. A newborn medical insurance policy can cover the costs of emergency care, hospitalisation, surgeries, and rehabilitation.

  - Investing in Preventive Care

Early detection and treatment of childhood illnesses are essential for long-term well-being. Many infant insurance plans include regular health check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive care. These benefits safeguard your child's health and contribute to their overall development.

Investing in health insurance for newborns is about financial protection and prioritising your child’s well-being. Knowing you have a financial cushion to protect their health provides peace of mind. When you secure their healthcare needs, you empower them to live healthy and fulfilling lives.

Benefits of buying Generali Central’s children’s health insurance plan

Here are the key benefits of investing in your child’s future with Generali Central’s health insurance for children:

  - Financial Protection

With the rising medical costs, medical care can put a strain on your finances. Purchasing Generali Central’s insurance for infants ensures that a significant portion of these medical expenses are covered. This way, you are not compelled to dip into your savings or take loans to manage healthcare costs.

  - Comprehensive Coverage

The best insurance policy for a child offers extensive coverage, including hospitalisation expenses, doctor’s fees, daycare treatments, and even certain preventive care services. Generali Central’s comprehensive protection ensures that your child receives the best possible medical care without worrying about the financial implications.

  - Cashless Hospitalisation

Cashless hospitalisation can significantly increase your convenience during trying times. With a network of tie-up hospitals, Generali Central’s cashless health insurance for infants allows for direct bill settlement and eliminates the need for upfront payments. It streamlines the claims process and provides peace of mind during medical emergencies.

  - Access to Quality Healthcare

The best child policies in India grant access to a vast network of quality hospitals so that your child receives the best medical care from experienced professionals. Generali Central’s health insurance plans for a family facilitate early and proper medical intervention for a child’s health.

  - Tax Benefits

Investing in your child’s health can also yield rewards. Premiums of up to ₹25,000 paid towards medical insurance for newborns are eligible for tax deductions, providing additional savings.

  - Lifelong Benefits

Generali Central’s newborn medical insurance offers the option to continue coverage as your child grows older. It ensures uninterrupted healthcare protection and can be especially beneficial in case your child has any pre-existing conditions.

What is covered in child health insurance plan?

Health insurance for children protects you from the high costs associated with medical emergencies and illnesses. Understanding the scope of coverage will help you make informed decisions regarding the best child policy in India.

Covered

Medical insurance for newborns covers various expenses related to your child’s healthcare. These may include:

  - In-Patient Hospitalisation Expenses

The best insurance policies for a child cover any medical costs incurred due to hospitalisation for more than 24 hours, including ICU charges, medicines, diagnostic services, room rent, and nursing charges.

  - Pre-Hospitalisation Expenses

Insurance for infants pays for medical expenses incurred before the child is admitted to a hospital, usually for 30 to 90 days before.

  - Post-Hospitalisation Expenses

Health insurance for children also pays for medical consultations or healthcare services for the insured child after hospital discharge, generally for 60 to 180 days post-hospitalisation.

  - Day Care Treatments

Health insurance for infants can cover treatments for the insured child that require less than 24 hours of hospital admission.

  - Domiciliary Hospitalisation

Health insurance for newborns pays for medical expenses for treatment at home on the advice of a qualified doctor.

  - OPD Treatment

Medical insurance for newborns covers outpatient consultations, dental treatments, or diagnostic services for the insured child.

  - Vaccination Cover

The insurance policy pays for the vaccination expenses of a newborn.

  - Ambulance Charges

Some infant insurance plans also cover ambulance service costs to transport the insured child to the nearest hospital during an emergency.

  - Newborn Baby Cover

It covers neonatal care expenses for a newborn, which is part of the maternity benefit if chosen by the mother

Not Covered

While children’s health insurance offers comprehensive coverage, certain expenses are excluded. These are:

  - Pre-Existing Diseases

Conditions present before the start of medical insurance for infants usually have a waiting period.

  - Cosmetic Treatments

Procedures that are undertaken primarily for aesthetic purposes are generally not covered.

  - Dental and Eye Care

Basic dental and eye care might not be covered under standard health insurance plans for children.

  - Self-inflicted Injuries

Injuries caused intentionally are not covered.

  - Adventure Sports

Injuries sustained during high-risk activities might be excluded.

  - Treatment In the Waiting Period

Some treatments or conditions might have a waiting period before coverage begins.

Carefully read the policy document to understand the specific inclusions and exclusions of the children’s plans. This knowledge will help you make informed decisions and ensure adequate protection for your child’s health.

Eligibility criteria for children’s health insurance

To qualify for medical insurance for newborns, your child needs to meet specific requirements.

  - Age

Generally, children between 3 months and 25 years old are eligible. However, check the specific age limits the insurance provider sets, as they vary.

  - Residency

Your child should be an Indian resident with a permanent address within the country.

  - Parent’s Health Insurance

One of the parents must be the primary policyholder or a co-policyholder.

  - Medical History

Accurate information about your child’s health history is crucial when applying for health insurance for infants. The insurer will assess the risk to determine eligibility and tailor the policy accordingly.

Carefully read and understand the terms of the health insurance for kids to adequately cover your little one’s healthcare needs.

How to buy the best child health insurance plan?

Selecting the right newborn medical insurance is a critical decision. Here’s a guide to assist you in choosing the best insurance policy for a child:

  - Understand Your Child’s Needs

Assess your child’s age, potential health risks, and specific medical requirements. It will help you identify the necessary coverage.

  - Compare Plans Thoroughly

Explore the different options of health insurance for infants. Compare coverage, premiums, waiting periods, and benefits. Prioritise plans that cover vaccinations, regular check-ups, and common childhood illnesses.

  - Check Network Hospitals

Ensure the insurance company has a vast network of hospitals in your area for convenient access to medical care.

  - Read Reviews and Seek Advice

Consider feedback from other parents and consult an insurance advisor to gain insights into different policies of health insurance for newborns. Their expertise can be valuable in making an informed decision.

  - Customise Your Plan

Choose health insurance for children that offers flexibility to tailor coverage based on your child’s past, current, and future medical needs and your budget. Some plans provide additional options, like dental or eye care.

  - Be Aware of Waiting Periods

Understand the waiting periods for pre-existing conditions and specific treatments. Opt for a plan with minimal waiting periods to ensure immediate coverage when required.

  - Read the Fine Print

Carefully review the policy’s terms, conditions, and exclusions. Clarify any doubts with the insurance provider before finalising the plan.

  - Consider Online Purchase

Explore buying medical insurance for infants online for convenience. Many insurers offer user-friendly platforms for easy comparison and purchase.

By following these steps and carefully considering your child’s specific needs, you can select a children’s health insurance that provides comprehensive protection.

Things to remember while buying health insurance for children

When selecting health insurance for infants, consider the following:

  - Coverage

Ensure the plan covers hospitalisation, doctor visits, vaccinations, and other essential healthcare services. Opt for plans that include outpatient care, emergency room visits, and specialised treatments like paediatrics and orthodontics.

  - Network Hospitals

Choose a plan for medical insurance for newborns with a strong network of hospitals in your area, preferably with paediatric facilities and experienced child specialists.

  - Claim Process

A hassle-free claim process is important to truly benefit from the insurance plan. Look for insurers offering dedicated support, online portals, and simplified paperwork.

  - Waiting Periods and Pre-existing Conditions

Understand the waiting period for different treatments and check coverage for pre-existing conditions.

  - Premium and Affordability

Select a plan that fits your budget without compromising essential coverage. Consider options for flexible premium payments and coverage adjustments.

  - Additional Benefits

Look for value-added features like wellness programs, health check-ups, or discounts on medicines.

  - Policy Renewal

Ensure the policy is easily renewable to maintain continuous coverage.

  - Understand the Policy

Carefully read the document to understand the terms and conditions. If you have any doubts, don’t hesitate to contact the insurer.

Considering these factors can enable you to choose a health insurance plan that leaves no room for unexpected expenses.

How to claim children’s health insurance

Understanding how to claim medical insurance will make the process hassle-free when your child requires medical attention. There are two primary methods: cashless and reimbursement.

Cashless Claim

In a cashless claim for medical insurance for infants, you don’t pay upfront if your child is hospitalised in a network hospital.

  - Inform the insurer about your child’s hospitalisation and expected treatment.

  - Show your insurance claim card and policy details to the hospital.

  - Provide necessary identity proofs for verification.

  - The insurer will verify the claim and authorise treatment.

  - The hospital will directly settle the bills with the insurer.

Reimbursement Claim

When filing a reimbursement claim for medical insurance for infants, you clear the medical bills first, which you later submit to the insurer for reimbursement.

  - Inform the insurer about your child’s hospitalisation and expected expenses.

  - Pay the hospital bills upfront.

  - Obtain a claim form from the insurer and fill in the required details.

  - Submit the claim form, medical bills, reports, prescriptions, etc.

  - The insurer will verify the claim and reimburse the eligible amount to your bank account.

Keep your newborn medical insurance policy details readily available to facilitate a smooth claims process.