The hidden benefits of consumables in health insurance policies

It was during the pandemic that most of us realised how the otherwise small expenses of PPE kits, masks, gloves, syringes, etc., can add to the final hospital bill. While a lot of plans may not cover the consumable items, with your Zurich Kotak Health insurance plan, you can easily cut back many of the out-of-pocket expenses. Read on to know how.

Consumables in health insurance

Consumables in health insurance refer to medical items and supplies that are used during the course of treatment but get exhausted or are consumed in the process. Apart from PPE kits, these include items such as bandages, gauze, cotton, and various other disposable materials that are necessary for medical procedures and patient care. Most regular health insurance plans do not offer coverage for consumables. However, it is available as an optional add-on and can be added to your medical insurance coverage.

Understanding the medical insurance coverage for consumables is a crucial aspect of making informed decisions when choosing a health plan, as it can significantly impact the overall financial burden of healthcare. The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India, IRDAI, has listed 199 products that are not payable by the insurer.

List of consumables:

1. Housekeeping:
   Items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, slippers, tissue paper etc.
   

2. Administrative:
   Expenses on documentation such as death certificates, birth certificates, daily health charts, medical recorders, visitor’s passes etc.
   

3. Room charges:
   Television, attendant charges, air conditioner, telephone etc.

Hidden benefits of consumables in health insurance policies

Consumables can significantly impact the overall cost of healthcare, especially in conditions that involve hospitalisation, surgeries or chronic illnesses requiring frequent monitoring and treatment. Let us take a look at some of the key benefits of consumables in health insurance. Keep in mind that health insurance policies can often differ in their coverage of consumables.

1. Makes hospitalisation more pocket-friendly
   The inclusion of consumables in health insurance can benefit policyholders by reducing out-of-pocket expenses making healthcare more affordable. It ensures that individuals do not have to bear the full cost of these essential but frequently used medical supplies.
   

2. Small expenses, big bills
   When you see the consumables individually, they may appear like small and relatively cheap things. However, as they are used repeatedly, they can take a big share of your bills. Also, with the consumable cover, you also get to save yourself from waste. For example, the patient needed some cotton, and the nurse opened a cotton role. Even if a tiny amount is used, you will be charged for the entire roll.

Conclusion

It's essential to carefully review your policy terms and conditions so that you know what consumables are covered and, most importantly, to what extent. It is highly recommended that you go through different Zurich Kotak Health insurance plans and find the one that best aligns with your healthcare needs and budget.

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