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Healthcare accessibility

IRDAI Removes Age Limit for Health Insurance, Enhancing Coverage and Accessibility

News on Health

The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has taken a significant step towards enhancing healthcare accessibility and coverage by eliminating the age limit of 65 years for individuals purchasing health insurance policies. This move aims to foster a more inclusive healthcare ecosystem and provide comprehensive protection against unforeseen medical expenses. Key Points: Removal of Age Limit: Previously, individuals were restricted from purchasing new health insurance policies after the age of 65. However, the recent amendment, effective from April 1, allows individuals of any age to buy new health insurance policies. Inclusive Product Offerings: IRDAI mandates insurers to offer health insurance products catering to all age groups. Insurers are encouraged to design specific products tailored for senior citizens, students, children, maternity, and other specified groups. Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions: Insurance companies are now required to provide coverage for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, such as cancer, heart or kidney failure, and AIDS. Denial of coverage based on pre-existing conditions is prohibited. Flexible Premium Payment: Insurers are permitted to offer premium payment options in instalments, enhancing convenience for policyholders. AYUSH Treatment Coverage: There is no limit on coverage for treatments under Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. Such treatments will receive coverage up to the sum insured without any cap. Multiple Claims Filing: Policyholders with benefit-based policies can file multiple claims with various insurers, providing flexibility and choice. Specialised Channel for Senior Citizens: The regulation establishes a specialised channel to handle complaints and claims of senior citizens, ensuring a tailored and responsive approach to their requirements. The removal of age restrictions and the introduction of comprehensive coverage for pre-existing conditions signify a significant step towards enhancing healthcare access and protection for individuals across all age groups in India.  

Deepti Gaur Mukerjee Takes the Helm as CEO of National Health Authority

news on health

The National Health Authority (NHA) has officially appointed Deepti Gaur Mukerjee as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The announcement was made on Wednesday, marking the beginning of a new era for the apex body responsible for overseeing the implementation of the government’s flagship health initiatives. Deepti Gaur Mukerjee, a 1993 batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the Madhya Pradesh cadre, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role. The NHA took to social media, particularly Twitter, to share the news with the public. The official NHA Twitter account posted, “We are delighted to extend the warmest welcome to Smt. Deepti Gaur Mukerjee, IAS as CEO, [MP:93], NHA,” NHA tweeted.” We are delighted to extend the warmest welcome to Smt. Deepti Gaur Mukerjee, IAS [MP:93] as CEO, NHA. — National Health Authority (NHA) (@AyushmanNHA) December 13, 2023 Mukerjee takes over the reins from Dr. Ram Sewak Sharma, who stepped down earlier this year after completing his tenure on January 31, 2023. Dr. Sharma had been appointed as the CEO of the NHA in February 2021. During his tenure, the NHA played a crucial role in implementing key healthcare initiatives, including the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Yojana (AB PM-JAY), a flagship health insurance scheme, and the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM), aimed at integrating digital health infrastructure across India. The appointment of Deepti Gaur Mukerjee is expected to bring fresh perspectives and strategic leadership to the NHA as it continues its mission to enhance healthcare accessibility and affordability for all citizens. As the nation grapples with ongoing healthcare challenges, Mukerjee’s role becomes pivotal in steering the NHA towards achieving its objectives and contributing to the overall improvement of India’s healthcare landscape. The healthcare community and the public eagerly await the impact of Mukerjee’s leadership on the nation’s health policies and initiatives.