Is Crohn Disease Covered Under Health Insurance Policy

In today’s fast-paced world, people are suffering from numerous diseases due to unhealthy eating and poor nutrition. Health problems relating to the digestive tract, such as Crohn’s disease, are a result of a poor lifestyle. It is a burning disease that happens due to the inflammation of the digestive tube. The disease can spread deeper into the bowel layers and result in life-threatening diseases such as colon cancer. Therefore, similar to other critical illnesses, it is crucial to treat Crohn's disease at the earliest stage. Generally, medications are used to treat this life-threatening disease. However, treatment may vary depending on the symptoms and conditions of the patient. Treatment for Crohn’s disease may burn a hole in your pocket. So, let’s find out if this critical illness is covered under health insurance in India. 

What is Crohn’s Disease? 

Crohn’s disease is a condition in which your digestive tract may get inflamed. It is considered Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) which causes painful swelling and irritation in the gastrointestinal tract. An individual suffering from this disease may experience symptoms like fever, abdominal pain, weight loss, and stool bleeding. You may have to undergo x-rays and diagnostic tests to check if Crohn's is dangerous and start treatment as soon as possible. 

Symptoms of Crohn’s Diseases

Listed below are some of the symptoms of Crohn’s disease. 

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhoea
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Loss of appetite 
• Weight loss
• Blood in stool 
• Mouth ulcers

Types of Crohn’s Disease 

Crohn’s disease can affect numerous parts of the digestive tract. Some of the types of Crohn’s disease are outlined below. 

• IIeities: The small intestine swells and gets inflamed. 
• IIeocolitis: Inflammation in the colon, small intestine, and a portion of the large intestine. 

• Jejunoileitis: Tiny areas of inflammation in the upper small intestine.

• Gastroduodenal: Pain and inflammation in the upper small intestine and the stomach. 

Does Health Insurance Cover Crohn’s Disease in India? 

Crohn’s disease is covered under health insurance plans in India. There are numerous health insurance companies providing various Critical Illness Insurance Plans to cover the hefty medical treatment costs. These plans typically provide a lump sum payment based on the amount of insurance you have chosen.

However, not all health insurance policies cover the condition. Before purchasing, carefully read the plan's terms and conditions. You might be covered for hospital bills, childcare operations, outpatient consultation fees, diagnostic testing, ambulance services, etc., depending on the type of coverage you choose. It is preferable to compare the various health plans online in order to make the best choice.

Waiting Period For Crohn’s Disease in Health Insurance 

Crohn’s disease is not covered from the first day of the policy tenure, regardless of whether you purchase a standard health insurance policy or a critical illness insurance plan. This means the policyholders must complete a waiting period, and thereafter, the medical expenses incurred due to Crohn’s disease are covered by health insurance. 

In India, there is a 30-day initial waiting period for all health insurance plans. However, all critical illness insurance policies have a 30-day survival period after the initial 90-day waiting period.

The aforementioned waiting time is only applicable if you are diagnosed with Crohn's disease after purchasing your insurance policy. If Crohn's disease was discovered in you even before you bought your coverage, it will be regarded as a pre-existing condition.

In such cases, you will have to wait between two and four years before you can file a claim with your insurance company for Crohn's disease coverage. Each plan may have a different waiting period for pre-existing conditions. In order to determine the precise waiting period for pre-existing conditions, you are suggested to carefully review the policy documents.

How Can You Prevent Crohn’s Disease? 

Tips to prevent Crohn’s disease are outlined below. 

• Avoid eating anything that is unpleasant, oily, or spicy, and drink plenty of water.
• Regular exercise, yoga, and meditation can all help you manage your stress.
• Make the necessary adjustments to fit your digestive system if your current lifestyle is the cause of the ailment.

Conclusion 

Your digestive tract can get inflamed, and if you don't treat it at the earliest possible time, you could end up with Crohn's disease for the rest of your life. It is wise to change your lifestyle and make sure you eat nourishing foods. Along with making lifestyle adjustments, it is preferable to purchase a health insurance policy, or Critical Illness Cover, which offers financial security against the costs of treating Crohn's disease. Remember to compare the plans and carefully review the terms and conditions listed in the policy document.

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