Cancer is one of the most dreaded medical conditions. Female breast cancer has become the most frequently encountered cancer worldwide. Even in India, it’s on burgeoning among women of all ages. There’s no doubt that cancer can wreak havoc on someone’s life, finances, and lifestyle, which is why everyone should start thinking about a suitable health insurance plan as soon as possible.
Breast cancer treatment costs in major Indian cities can rise up to INR 10–15 lakhs. Cancer insurance protects individuals against the sharp increase in cancer cases and the exorbitant costs of cancer treatment. This covers chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and medical care.
Breast cancer symptoms may be experienced.
- You have discharge coming from your breasts’ nipples.
- Changing the shape of the nipple
- Breast itching and discomfort
- There may also be changes in skin texture, like puckering, dimpling, etc.
- You might experience problems with breast enlargement.
- Pigmentation is also possible.
- Furthermore, you might notice your skin peeling.
What’s the point of getting breast cancer insurance if you already have medical insurance?
Today, nobody has enough health insurance for their families or themselves. There are no health issues on the horizon, and diseases have increased. Today, people are more prone to a wide range of ailments, let alone accidental health problems. The most effective way to stay safe from such illnesses is to have a robust health insurance plan.
Due to soaring medical costs, a basic health insurance plan might not be enough to cover you and your family.
It’s a smart idea to get breast cancer insurance and medical insurance. There are more reasons you should get one.
- Getting covered for breast cancer
You can upgrade your existing health insurance plan’s coverage if you buy breast cancer coverage. Therefore, you’ll have plenty of financial protection if you get breast cancer.
- Your savings are secure.
You will be stuck with extensive medical bills if you don’t have breast cancer coverage. You might lose everything you’ve saved. You don’t want any of these for your financial future.
Detecting breast cancer early can boost cure rates to 100%. When it’s detected later, the treatment is more aggressive. Mammograms, self-breast exams, and clinical breast exams can catch cancer in its infancy. Regular screenings are especially helpful if you have a family history of breast cancer. Early detection gives patients more options. When the tumour is discovered early, breast conservation is possible rather than complete removal.
Things You Must Know About Health Insurance for Breast Cancer
- Insurance for critical illnesses covers breast cancer
There are critical illness coverage options in health insurance plans that cover breast cancer, or you can buy a separate breast cancer policy. Compared to the latter, the former offers lower breast cancer coverage. When faced with breast cancer and certain covered critical illnesses, a lump sum will be paid out.
- Some expenses may have to be paid for
Insurance beneficiaries have to pay for various costs out of their own pocket during breast cancer treatment, including getting to the hospital. Then there are the costs of buying medical supplies, creating nutrition plans, etc. You won’t be covered for these costs under your normal health insurance plan. Choosing a critical illness policy will result in a lump sum payment from your insurer.
- A waiting period for breast cancer
The waiting period must pass before breast cancer coverage becomes available. No matter what health insurance plan you buy—whether you buy an add-on cover with a standard plan or a critical illness plan—you will have to pay a monthly premium. Furthermore, even if you file a claim during the pre-claim period, the insurer will deny it. In most policies, the minimum amount of time to wait before receiving a payout for breast cancer is 90 days plus a survival clause of 30 or 60 days. This is specified in your policy.
- Critical illness insurance survival period
Critical illness insurers also consider survival periods. Breast cancer is subject to a 30-day waiting period, according to the insurer. The policyholder must wait until the coverage period is over before getting reimbursed for breast cancer coverage. A lump sum will be paid to cover treatment costs when the insured survives the survival term. If the policyholder passes away within a month of diagnosis, the insurer won’t pay any claims.
- Check-ups for preventative health care are free.
A free annual health checkup is an easy way to detect breast cancer early if you have an insurance plan that covers it. Plus, you can save some money by getting a free health checkup since screenings can be expensive.
- Rider or add-on cover for critical illness
Although most standard health insurance policies cover breast cancer, the covered amount is less if you add critical illness coverage. However, you’ll have to pay an extra premium.
Conclusion
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women today. Due to the high cost of treating breast cancer, critical illness insurance is recommended. Make sure you remember these things before you buy a breast cancer health insurance plan. Get screened every year for breast cancer to catch it early.
Disclaimer: This article is for illustrative purposes only. For further details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.