It is established that the need for a well-designed, comprehensive health insurance cover is a basic necessity in today’s times. Due to the rise of lifestyle diseases, early onset of health issues, and ever-increasing medical inflation, today having health insurance to cover critical treatment expenses has become vital to ensure a life of dignity for everyone. Health insurance addresses tertiary care and covers the curative or remedial aspect of health, and needs to be amended. Today, there is a rising demand for preventive care and wellness proposition amongst the customers, which helps them acquire 360-degree health protection.

Amid the rush and hustle-bustle of the modern lifestyle, sadly healthcare is being neglected by many. In India we are witnessing an alarming rise in non-communicable diseases. Each year more and more youngsters are acquiring new disorders. Cases of diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disorder are on rise.

To help curb these disturbing trends, the insurance industry is working passionately to design solutions that will help pave a solid path towards a healthier India. Many of these health disorders are a result of the modern-day, stressful, unhealthy lifestyle. To address this issue two broad focus areas for insurers are offering wellness propositions to their customers and designing products that have the element of preventive care embedded.

The wellness programs are designed to nudge policyholders to adopt healthy behavior; the general theme is ‘staying fit is beneficial’. The policyholders are rewarded for participating in sporting events or marathons, for acquiring healthy lifestyles like going to the gym, practicing yoga, etc. Such reward points can be redeemed against health vouchers or can be used to gain a discount on renewal premium; the reward system varies from insurer to insurer and product to product. Additionally, insurers have launched their wellness apps which will help customers in keeping up with their fitness regime. The app helps you to keep a track of your vitals, and suggest you right kind of food and exercise tips. You will have a personal health coach, to guide you and your family members in your mission to a healthier life. The industry is also working to design disease management programs for their customers, which are well-researched and well-designed treatment programs for people suffering from chronic diseases. These programs aim to help the patient to manage their chronic diseases, how they can avoid worsening their health issues, and keep a check on their condition.