Group Health Insurance Policy

Group Health Insurance is a type of plan that provides insurance coverage to a group of members, usually a group of employees of a company or members of an organization. These plans are usually offered by banks, business groups, organisations, employers to their employees, housing societies etc., and the amount of premium is borne by the organisation itself.

Group Health Insurance is also referred to as Corporate Health Insurance. The primary benefit provided by employers under a Group Health Insurance policy is that the employees often get an option to include their family members namely spouse, children, and in some cases parents too.

Group Health Insurance proves to be a beneficial plan for both employers as well as employees. A Group Health Insurance plan provides employers with benefits like low cost, tax benefits, motivated employees, and increased employee retention.

Benefits Of Group Medical Insurance Policy

Listed below are some advantages of being covered under a group insurance policy:

1. Immediate cover without any waiting period
2. No health check-up required
3. Cover for pre-existing diseases from day one
4. Wide cover range with no limit on number and types of diseases
5. Advantage of maternity benefit along with cover for newborn baby expenses
6. Low premium in comparison to individual health insurance

It is important to note that employees can enjoy the benefits of a corporate health insurance policy only till they work in the organization which bought the plan. The day employees quit the job, their Group Health Insurance plan becomes null and void.

How Many Members Can Be Covered Under Group Health Insurance?

Under group health insurance, you can cover your dependents such as spouse, parents, or children (depending on the plan).

How To Buy The Best Group Health Insurance Policy

When it comes to buying a Group Health Insurance plan, it is the employer who makes the choice. An employee cannot buy the policy.

If you are an employer looking for the best Group Health Insurance plan for your employees, consider the below-mentioned points while purchasing a plan:

1. Coverage

The most important aspect of a Group Health Insurance plan is its coverage. The policy should cover all medical needs of the employees, without compromising on the quality of treatment.

2. Service

The quality of service is another factor that you must keep in mind while buying a Group Health Insurance plan for your employees.

3. Geographical Coverage

An ideal Group Health Insurance plan should come with a vast cover in terms of geographical location. Also, it is important to check the number of hospitals that are a part of the insurer’s network spread across the country. A cashless claim facility is available only at insurer network hospitals.

4. Premium Amount

Premium is another key aspect that you should consider while purchasing a Group Health Insurance plan. You must ensure that the premium paid is worth the coverage provided.

5. Exclusions

Besides checking the coverage, also do check the exclusions of the Group Health Insurance plan beforehand so that your employees do not face inconvenience later

What is Covered Under a Group Health Insurance Policy?

A group health insurance plan usually covers you for the following:

• In-patient hospitalisation expenses
• Pre-hospitalisation and post-hospitalisation expenses
• Daycare procedures
• Chronic illnesses like arthritis, diabetes, etc.
• Cover for pre-existing diseases
• Option to include spouse or kids, etc.
• Emergency ambulance expenses
• Cashless hospitalisation benefit at network hospitals
• Some insurers also cover maternity expenses
• No requirement of medical screening

What is Not Covered Under Group Health Insurance Plans?

Group health insurance plans do not cover you for the following expenses:

• Pre-existing diseases are not covered during the waiting period
• Injuries arising due to war or warlike situations
• Expenses related to external durable items
• Dental treatments
• Maternity expenses during waiting periods
• Cosmetic surgeries
• Any treatment required due to self harm including attempt of suicide