Buying guide
The Health Insurance Checklist
Twelve things to look for before you buy — seven you shouldn't compromise on, five that sweeten the deal. Tick the ones your policy offers and see how it scores.
Your score
0/12
Must-have featuresNon-negotiable
Skip these and you risk paying out of pocket when it matters.
Good-to-have features
Nice extras that tilt a close decision.
Frequently asked questions
No co-payment, no room-rent cap, no disease sub-limits, pre and post hospitalisation cover, a low waiting period, day-care treatments, and a restoration benefit. Missing any of these can cost you at claim time.
Aim for all seven must-have features. A plan that ticks five or six can still work, but weigh the gaps carefully before you buy.
They rarely decide a policy on their own, but no-claim bonus, free health check-ups, consumables cover, domiciliary care and modern treatments are useful tie-breakers between two similar plans.