My health insurance premium is up 30%: what are my options?

I am a senior citizen. This year my health insurance premium increased by more than 30%, and I'm finding it difficult to pay. I have had this policy for the past 14 years, but now the cost has become too high. I am required to pay over Rs 50,000 for coverage of Rs 2 lakh. Can I port the product? What are my other options?

- Shilpa Arora

—Name withheld on request

Let me say first, you are not alone. Many senior citizens today face steep health insurance premium hikes, especially after crossing a certain age. A 30% increase is substantial, and it is understandable that paying more than Rs 50,000 annually for just Rs 2 lakh of coverage feels disproportionate.

Your first option is to port your health insurance policy. The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India allows you to shift your existing policy to another insurer without losing the benefits of continuity, such as waiting periods for pre-existing diseases.