Insurance: Siblings and live-in partners will now be covered, changing the face of health insurance policies..

Health insurance companies in India have made a significant change, making retail health plans more flexible. Brothers, sisters, and live-in partners can now be included in a single policy. Previously, this option was not available, and coverage was limited to the traditional family of husband, wife, children, and parents. This forced many people to take out separate policies despite living in the same household.

According to Policybazaar, the current framework was not in line with India's changing lifestyle. In the country's major cities, it is common for young people to live with their siblings, and many couples choose to live in a live-in relationship instead of marrying. A joint health policy option was considered essential for such families. Keeping this in mind, companies have expanded the coverage.

Changes to Recognize Modern Family Patterns

Siddharth Singhal, Head of Health Insurance at Policybazaar, said that this update is the most progressive step for the sector as the needs of urban families in India are rapidly changing. He said that this change recognizes the true domestic responsibilities and relationships, where financial and health decisions are often made jointly by siblings or live-in partners.

Quality of coverage remains the same.
Insurtech companies stated that despite the addition of new options, exclusions, waiting periods, benefits, and underwriting rules will remain the same. This means that there will be no change in the quality of coverage upon expanding the family. Consumers are simply being given the flexible option to add additional members.

Which companies launched this new feature?
Aditya Birla Health Insurance and ICICI Lombard have already launched this new feature. Industry experts say that other companies will soon adopt this model as demand for policies that are inclusive and tailored to modern family setups is constantly increasing in the market. This move is considered to increase both the reach and utility of health insurance. Ultimately, it is being said that this change will not only provide convenience to consumers but will also facilitate long-term health security planning. Having the entire house covered under a single policy will simplify premium management and eliminate the hassle of purchasing different plans.

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