Mental health issues are often less talked about, mainly because of the stigma surrounding them. But the truth is mental health issues deserve the same intervention and support as physical health issues. IRDAI has also recently instructed insurance companies to treat mental and physical illnesses similarly and offer coverage. So, insurers seek ways to support mental well-being through customisable coverage options. Even if you have a history of mental illness, you can still get coverage through your insurance policy. Read on to discover how medical insurance supports mental wellness.
Importance of Mental Health Coverage
1 in 5 Indians suffer from some kind of mental illness which impacts their quality of life. When mental health issues become severe, it can hinder your ability to work, earn, and be a productive member of society. Getting the right support at the right time is crucial for those with mental illnesses. This is even more important because, unlike physical illnesses, mental illnesses don't have visible symptoms, and it is easy for someone to miss that the other person has some mental wellness problems.
Unexpected life events can happen to anyone, and when your mental health is affected, you should get professional help and treatment. With the right insurance plan, it is possible to connect you with experts and help you get diagnosed. The medical insurance must also cover the cost of the treatment so that you can regain control over your life.
How Medical Insurance Supports Mental Wellbeing?
Apart from providing financial security when you have mental health disorders, mental health insurance sets the course for detailed care for mental health. Whether you need ongoing support or immediate crisis intervention, such a medical insurance policy can help you in the following ways:
Hospitalisation Coverage
Depending on the severity, your mental disorder may require you to get hospitalised, and your insurance policy can cover those expenses. This includes inpatient admission costs, medications, diagnostic procedures, room rent, and even road ambulance. The exact coverage depends on the policy you choose. Your mental health issue may not have physical symptoms, but the insurance will cover the hospitalisation charges, if any.
Access to Mental Health Experts
Often, people with mental issues disengage from their surroundings and may not ask for help, mainly because they don't know who to ask. Mental health coverage gives you direct and immediate access to mental health experts like psychologists, therapists, psychotherapists, etc., so you can connect with experts whenever you want. Some plans also cover video consultations, so you don't have to wait for professional help.
Coverage for Consultations and Medication
Only a small percentage of mental disorders require hospitalisation. In most cases, people with mental health issues need ongoing outpatient care and continuous medical treatments. Those who worry about paying for those out of pocket may often stop themselves from getting the help they need. When an insurance plan covers doctor consultations, therapist sessions, and mental health medicines, you can get professional help without worrying about the costs.
Wellness Programs for Ongoing Support
Insurance companies now offer holistic wellness programs for physical and mental health needs. You can use these programs to learn more about your mental health and get support from peers and experts whenever needed. This can be useful for vulnerable individuals to maintain a healthy mind and body. These wellness programs can also offer early intervention for those who need it. As a result, you can enjoy overall health and be happier.
Conclusion
Mental health is necessary for overall health. Understanding available mental health coverage is important. From hospital stays to online consultations, your insurance policy can cover a variety of mental illnesses. Depending on the type of policy, there may be a waiting period before mental illnesses are covered. As long as you provide full disclosure about mental issues at the time of policy purchase, you don't have to worry about claim rejection for mental health treatments. Choosing the right and supportive insurer is the key to ensuring that your mental health claims are settled without hassle.
