Unhappy With Your Health Insurance Provider? Switch Your Policy in 5 Easy Steps Without Losing Benefits

If you're dissatisfied with your current health insurance provider—whether due to poor service, increased premiums, or limited coverage—there's good news. You can now port your existing health insurance policy to another insurer without losing your No Claim Bonus (NCB) or other accumulated benefits. Thanks to IRDAI regulations, the process is simple, secure, and consumer-friendly—if you follow the correct steps.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to port your health insurance policy in 5 easy steps, and how to retain all your benefits while getting better coverage or lower premiums.

✅ When Should You Consider Porting Your Health Insurance Policy?

You may want to switch your insurer in the following cases:

• Premiums have increased without an improvement in coverage or benefits.

• Frequent claim rejections or delays, even for valid medical cases.

• Limited cashless hospital network or lack of coverage for essential services.

• Poor customer support during emergencies or unclear policy communication.

These are red flags suggesting it’s time to look for a more reliable insurer offering better value and service.

🔄 Key Benefits of Porting Your Health Insurance Policy

Porting your policy doesn’t mean starting from scratch. The following benefits transfer seamlessly:

• No Claim Bonus (NCB): If you haven’t made any claims, your bonus amount will carry forward to the new insurer.

• Waiting Periods: If you’ve already completed the waiting period for pre-existing diseases, the new insurer must honor it.

• Policy Benefits: All accrued benefits tied to your policy tenure are also retained when you port.

• Continued Coverage: There’s no break in coverage during the transition if done correctly.

📝 Step-by-Step Guide to Port Your Health Insurance in 5 Easy Steps

Step 1: Compare and Choose the Right Policy
Start by comparing different policies across insurers. Look for:

• Equal or higher sum insured

• Wide cashless hospital network

• At least 90% claim settlement ratio

• Add-ons like free health checkups, critical illness cover, etc.

Step 2: Notify Your Current Insurer in Advance
You must inform your current insurer at least 45 days before your policy renewal date. Porting is only allowed during policy renewal, so timing is crucial.

Step 3: Submit the Porting Request & Documentation
Once you choose a new insurer, fill out their portability form and submit the following:

• Copy of your existing policy

• Renewal notice

• Claim history (if any)

• Medical records, if requested

Step 4: Wait for Processing (Up to 15 Days)
The new insurer will verify your details and respond within 15 days. If no response is received within this period, the application is automatically considered approved.

Step 5: Ensure Continuous Coverage
Make sure your old policy remains active until the new one is officially approved and paid for. This avoids any gaps in coverage.

⚠️ Important Tips While Porting

• Match the Sum Insured: Your new policy should at least match your old policy’s coverage.

• Review Terms Thoroughly: Each insurer has slightly different terms. Understand the inclusions, exclusions, and claim process before switching.

• Maintain a Clean Claim Record: A clean record can boost approval chances and ensure smooth porting.

Final Words

Switching your health insurance provider doesn’t have to be stressful or risky. If you're unhappy with your current plan, take control and port your policy smartly and safely. By following the right process, you can enjoy improved services, lower premiums, and enhanced benefits—without losing your hard-earned NCB or policy advantages.