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Try bringing condition under control to improve chances of getting coverage

- SANJAY KUMAR SINGH & KARTHIK JEROME

May 17 was celebrated as World Hypertension Day. Around 25 per cent of Indian adults suffer from hypertension, according to the World Health Organization and the India Hypertension Control Initiative. This condition can lead to serious complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney and eye disorders, and cognitive decline.

"Hypertension can be the root cause of many diseases regarded as chronic or critical," says Ashish Yadav, head - products and business operations, ManipalCigna Health Insurance.

Getting a cover becomes a challenge Buying health insurance can be challenging for individuals with hypertension. "Such applicants have to undergo extensive medical testing, which can be time-consuming, stressful, and costly," says Dinesh Mosamkar, senior vice president consumer underwriting, Tata AIG General Insurance.

Insurers evaluate proposals of hypertensive customers on many aspects. "They factor in the duration of the condition—whether it is recent or chronic. The second is the blood pressure level—whether it is kept within limits or is out of control. They also check for comorbidities," says Mosamkar. If hypertension is uncontrolled, the policy proposal may get turned down. If it is issued, it may come with exclusions, sub-limits, or a long waiting period. Premiums may be higher. "A loading could be applied," says Yadav.