7 Factors Affecting Health Insurance Premiums in India

If you are planning to buy a health insurance policy, there are a variety of plans available. The health insurance coverage offered by them and the premium rates to be paid can be confusing in nature at times. Health insurance premiums vary from insurer to insurer and from customer to customer. There are several factors that affect health insurance premium such as age, income, gender, family history of illnesses. Here are some of the key factors that affect how much health insurance premium you will be required to pay in India:

1. Age

   It comes as no surprise that age is one of the most important influences on how much premium you are charged. The younger you are, the lesser premium you will be required to pay. Young people have fewer health conditions as compared to older people and are much less likely to require medical assistance and coverage. Hence, it is advised to buy health insurance policies with good cover when you are younger.

2. Medical History

   Typically, if you have a family history of certain diseases such as cancer, blood pressure or heart disease, you are more likely to require medical care in future for the same. Hence, individuals with a medical family history of such diseases require more coverage like cancer insurance plan and subsequently may be required to pay higher rates of premium to provide them with adequate medical assistance.

3. Body Mass Index (BMI)

   People with a higher BMI are usually charged a higher premium than those with a normal BMI. This is because individuals with high BMI are more likely to suffer from diseases related to heart, joint and also diseases such as diabetes and other problems, making it more likely for them to opt for medical care on a regular basis.

4. Smoker/Non-Smoker

   If you are a regular smoker you will be required to pay a higher premium for your medical insurance due to significantly higher health risks for smokers. Insurer’s worldwide charge a higher premium to diversify the higher risks associated with insuring a smoker. Regular smokers are more likely to be vulnerable to issues such as lung cancer, stroke, heart disease, asthma, respiratory complications, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and hypertension.

5. Pre-existing health conditions

   Health insurance premiums for individuals with pre-existing health conditions are likely to be expensive as you will require more coverage than others. This will be exclusive to your plan as it will provide you with a cover for the pre-existing condition. 

6. Geographical location

   The place of your residence may also affect the rate of premium that you will be required to pay. Certain zip codes demand a higher rate of premium while others do not.

7. Profession/occupation

   Since your occupation plays a key role in your health condition, it also plays a key role in how much health insurance premium you are required to pay. If you have a very stressful job or if you work in a hazardous environment t, you are more likely to suffer from significant medical issues and hence, you may be charged a higher premium.
   
   Hence it is very important to be well updated with health conditions of self and family. Being aware of your health conditions will assist you in choosing suitable plans and riders. This will make sure that the premiums you pay are not over/under charged.

Whether you are trying to lose weight or making a shift towards a healthy life, understanding your BMI (Body Mass Index) is one of the first necessary steps you can make. The BMI calculator can indicate your body’s fat content based on your weight and height. Once you have a clear view of this, you can go through different health insurance plans on the PNB MetLife website and secure your future financially against the growing healthcare costs. 

Disclaimer: 
The aforesaid article presents the view of an independent writer who is an expert on financial and insurance matters. PNB MetLife India Insurance Co. Ltd. doesn’t influence or support views of the writer of the article in any way. The article is informative in nature and PNB MetLife and/ or the writer of the article shall not be responsible for any direct/ indirect loss or liability or medical complications incurred by the reader for taking any decisions based on the contents and information given in article. Please consult your financial advisor/ insurance advisor/ health advisor before making any decision.

PNB MetLife India Insurance Company Limited, Registered office address: Unit No. 701, 702 & 703, 7th Floor, West Wing, Raheja Towers, 26/27 M G Road, Bangalore -560001, Karnataka.
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