In India, different types of treatments have existed for a long time. These alternative treatments haven’t lost their shine in recent times. They remain quite popular among a large section of Indians, especially among people with chronic illnesses or lifestyle diseases.
But alternative treatments can also cost you money if you’re considering them for an extended period. So, it’s crucial to know whether your health plan covers the treatment of alternative treatments.
While the short answer is yes, let’s delve deeper to get the complete picture.
What Is Meant by Alternative Treatments?
In India, many people prefer to undergo different traditional therapies than conventional western medicine. People may believe these treatments to be safe, without side effects, and effective in dealing with the root cause of a disease. All these treatments may fall under alternative treatments.
Is an Alternative Treatment Covered Under Health Insurance?
The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) recognises alternative treatments classified under AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy). So, the cost incurred on treatment of diseases, medicines, hospitalisation, etc., under AYUSH can be covered by a health insurance policy.
But check with the insurer whether its medical insurance product covers AYUSH treatment or not. For instance, the Arogya Sanjeevani policy, the standard indemnity health insurance plan offered by all insurers, covers AYUSH treatments.
Any other alternative treatments not covered under AYUSH, such as aromatherapy, hypnotherapy, traditional Chinese medicine, etc., are not covered under any medical insurance.
Benefits of Medical Insurance Coverage Under AYUSH
AYUSH treatment coverage by your health insurance plan can be beneficial because of the following reasons.
- You are free to explore traditional Indian medicines to cure your illness.
- You can use the AYUSH cover for preventive healthcare and wellness.
- AYUSH treatments can be costly depending on the type and place of treatment. A health insurance policy can help you meet these costs without straining your finances.
Terms and Conditions to Claim Ayush Treatment Costs
You can refer to the policy documents for the detailed terms and conditions to be met for AYUSH treatment costs. Some crucial ones are mentioned below.
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Certified AYUSH Practitioner
The person prescribing AYUSH medicines and treatments must have a recognised degree. Moreover, the AYUSH practitioner should not be related to the insured person.
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Registered Hospital
The patient should be receiving treatment or medical care in a registered AYUSH hospital or AYUSH daycare centre. AYUSH treatments received in any other hospital will not be covered by medical insurance.
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Maximum Cost
A hospital can sometimes inflate bills for profits. However, the insurer will pay only the fair price of treatment as per the policy terms and conditions.
Western medicines can be unsuitable for certain people for various reasons like side effects, allergies, age, palliative care, etc. Alternative treatment can provide relief to such people. Besides, personal belief and faith in alternative medicines can also help a person recover quickly from a disease.
Therefore, AYUSH treatment coverage in your health insurance can be an added advantage if you want to explore alternative medicines and therapy.
