OPD, or out – patient department is an important part of a healthcare centre, where patients can be treated without having to be hospitalised. This may include follow up visits, a visit where you show your doctor your test reports, or check ups for other health conditions you may have which requires consultations with the doctor. A health insurance policy which covers all the above-mentioned expenses is called OPD cover.
Many health insurance providers offer this benefit in their plans, so that the insured need not spend hefty amounts from their own pockets for general medical visits.
Is OPD Cover built-in or a rider?
OPD cover can either be in built in one’s plan, or offered as a rider with additional premium, this depends entirely on the insurer. The coverage scope will certainly be extensive, but it might come with an additional premium ( if included as a rider) or the plan itself may have a higher premium ( if included in the plan)
Benefits of a health insurance plan with OPD cover
If one gets an insurance plan with OPD cover, they are eligible to enjoy a fair few benefits. The insured can normally enjoy tax benefits which come with paying the premium of the health insurance policy with OPD cover. OPD coverage usually also extends to medicines and other minor procedures that do not require hospitalization of the patient.
Waiting period clause is also usually lower compared to regular health insurance and the insured person is allowed to file for a claim multiple times under the health insurance policy. OPD coverage can act as a boon for senior citizens especially, as they may need to frequent the doctor’s chambers more often than others.
Tips for Buying Health insurance with OPD Cover
Sufficient thought needs to go towards choosing the right plan with OPD cover. If your plan does not have decent coverage, the costs may outweigh the benefits and you will feel the pinch in your pocket. Here are a few tips to consider when selecting a health insurance policy with OPD cover:
- Buy from a Credible Insurer
Buying your insurance plan from a credible and reputed insurance provider will not only help keep your finances safe, but also keep your mind at peace. An insurer with a good claim settlement ratio will be up front about your claims being settled on time. This subsequently lowers the chances of your claim being rejected.
- Check for the waiting period
Most health insurance plans come with a waiting period clause to cover pre-existing illnesses. The same may be applicable to OPD coverage. Choosing a policy in which the waiting period is the minimum is good practice.
- Choose sufficient coverage amount
A sufficient coverage amount will automatically mean that you are extensively covered in a health insurance plan.
In today’s market, health insurance plans offer a lot of benefits with OPD coverage. Health insurance plan with OPD cover may includes visits to the doctor, diagnostic tests and even dental treatment expenses. Buying a health insurance policy with OPD benefit can potentially help you save a lot and leave you stress-free about repeated expenses incurred at repeated visits to the doctor.
