Understanding healthcare inflation

Healthcare inflation refers to the annual increase in the cost of medical services and products, which typically outpaces general economic inflation. Factors contributing to healthcare inflation include advances in medical technology, increased demand for medical services, rising prices of drugs and medical devices, and administrative costs associated with healthcare. These factors combined make healthcare one of the most significant expenses individuals and families face during their lifetimes.

The impact on medical insurance

The effect of healthcare inflation on medical insurance is two-fold: it not only increases the cost of insurance premiums but also affects the coverage benefits. As the cost of medical care increases, insurance companies may adjust plan premiums and out-of-pocket costs to maintain their profit margins. This can result in higher premiums and potentially higher deductibles and copays for consumers, making it challenging to keep medical insurance affordable without compromising on necessary coverage. Discussed below are the key aspects through which medical insurance may be impacted:

1. Increased premiums

Insurance premiums have been rising steadily, largely due to the increased costs of medical treatments and diagnostic services. For consumers, this means allocating a larger portion of their budget to health insurance each year, which can strain personal finances.

2. Higher out-of-pocket expenses

As healthcare costs rise, insurance providers may increase deductibles, copays, and coinsurance to offset their risk. This shift places a greater financial burden on policyholders, who must pay more out-of-pocket before their insurance coverage fully starts off.

3. Changes in coverage

To manage rising costs, insurance companies might also modify the terms of their coverage. This could include tightening restrictions on coverage, requiring prior authorizations for certain procedures, or reducing the network of covered providers and facilities.

Choosing the right health insurance coverage

In an environment of rising healthcare costs, choosing the right medical insurance coverage becomes paramount. Here are several strategies to ensure that your health insurance remains effective despite inflation:

1. Assess your health needs

Evaluate your and your family’s health needs annually. Consider any regular medications, anticipated surgeries, or treatments that might be needed in the coming years. Understanding these needs will help you determine the level of coverage required and ensure that you are not underinsured.

2. Review insurance plans annually

Insurance needs can change as family circumstances and health statuses evolve. Moreover, insurance plans themselves change. It's essential to review and compare insurance plans annually to ensure that your current plan still offers the suitable value and coverage considering the latest healthcare inflation trends.

3. Opt for higher deductibles

If you are relatively healthy and do not anticipate frequent medical care, opting for a plan with a higher deductible might help manage monthly premium costs. However, ensure you have sufficient savings to cover the higher deductible should unexpected medical needs arise.

4. Consider supplemental insurance

Supplemental insurance plans can help cover gaps in your primary health insurance. For example, critical illness insurance or hospital indemnity insurance can provide additional coverage for specific diseases or hospital stays, respectively.

5. Maximize preventative care

Many insurance plans offer preventive services without copays or deductibles. Take full advantage of these features. Preventive care can detect or mitigate health issues before they become serious, potentially saving on future medical costs.

Healthcare inflation poses a significant challenge when it comes to managing medical insurance and healthcare costs. By understanding the impact of inflation on health insurance and reviewing your coverage annually, you can make informed decisions that align with your health needs and financial capabilities. In doing so, you ensure that you and your family are protected against the rising costs of healthcare, securing both your health and financial well-being in the face of ongoing healthcare inflation.

Disclaimer: T&C Apply. Bajaj Finance Limited (‘BFL’) is a registered corporate agent of third party insurance products of Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance Company Limited, HDFC Life Insurance Company Limited, Future Generali Life Insurance Company Limited, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company Limited, SBI General Insurance Company Limited, ACKO General Insurance Limited, ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company Limited, HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company Limited, Tata AIG General Insurance Company Limited, The New India Assurance Company Limited, Cholamandalum MS General Insurance Company Limited, Niva Bupa Health Insurance Company Limited , Aditya Birla Health Insurance Company Limited, Manipal Cigna Health Insurance Company Limited and Care Health Insurance Company Limited under the IRDAI composite CA registration number CA0101. Please note that, BFL does not underwrite the risk or act as an insurer. Your purchase of an insurance product is purely on a voluntary basis after your exercise of an independent due diligence on the suitability, viability of any insurance product. Any decision to purchase insurance product is solely at your own risk and responsibility and BFL shall not be liable for any loss or damage that any person may suffer, whether directly or indirectly. Please refer insurer's website for Policy Wordings. For more details on risk factors, terms and conditions and exclusions please read the product sales brochure, policy wording carefully before concluding a sale. Tax benefits applicable if any, will be as per the prevailing tax laws. Tax laws are subject to change. BFL does NOT provide Tax/Investment advisory services. Please consult your advisors before proceeding to purchase an insurance product. URN No. BFL/Advt./23-24/340