The impact of smoking on health insurance premiums

The healthcare expenses spent during the treatment of an enlisted medical condition can be covered by health insurance coverage. Having medical insurance has various benefits and advantages that will satisfy financial needs when in need. Pre- and post-hospitalization, consultations fee, medication costs, ambulance fees, tax deductions, room rents, and many more advantages are among the usual coverages available under your medical insurance.

The cost of a health insurance policy is affected by the type of plan selected, the individual's medical background, and any underlying illnesses, such as oral cancer, lung cancer, weaker bones, coronary heart disease, etc. According to several medical treatments, smokers have a higher health insurance premium than non-smokers since they are more likely to develop life-threatening ailments. It is obvious why smokers must pay higher premiums for health insurance when the severity of these ailments and the fatalities they are prone to are considered.

How does smoking affect health insurance premiums?

Your smoking habit influences the health insurance premiums in contrast to the health risks & financial costs. Your insurance plan might be impacted in this way.

• Exclusive

Smoking-related illnesses may be excluded entirely from the range of coverage by some insurance providers or plans. These exceptions will be listed in the policy, so when choosing a health coverage plan, you must pay close attention to how the plan operates.

• Higher rate of premium

Smokers are known to have a higher chance of developing a wide range of illnesses and are more likely to pass away from complications. They might normally fall into the high-risk category, which enhances the likelihood that an insurer will pay a claim on a smoker's insurance. Insurance companies typically charge them a higher premium to account for this risk.

What can a smoker do to reduce the amount of health insurance premiums?

You must take the following actions if you want to reduce the premium amount:

• Find insurance providers that cater to smokers

In India, smoking is quite common. Insurance firms continue to provide coverage to smokers despite the increased claim risk. Some businesses actively court smokers while providing significantly lower premium levels. Find a company that has a medical insurance plan that fits your requirements.

• Join a quit-smoking program

Tobacco cessation programs developed by several insurance firms and businesses successfully reduce the price of health insurance premiums. You must refrain from smoking for at least 2 months before buying a health insurance plan.

Conclusion

You must always be truthful with your health insurance provider while claiming your health insurance coverage during hospitalization for treatment for smoking-related disorders, including bronchitis, lung cancer, etc. Ensure that your insurance has made the essential inclusions, you must always review the policy-related documentation before buying one.