In the country, the count of elderly people, who are 60 years old and older, is significantly high. As individuals get older, people become increasingly susceptible to health conditions. It is crucial for patients to access the opportunity
for suitable medical care. Realizing the importance of complete medical insurance for the ageing population, the government of India has introduced various govt health insurance schemes for senior citizens, specifically customized
for them. These govt medical insurance for senior citizen programs strive to offer economic security and guarantee that elderly individuals are able to pay for excellent health services without huge medical expenditures.
Government Health Scheme For Senior Citizens
There are various govt health insurance for senior citizens. The following are some of them:
Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY)
The Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana, which is backed by government funding, is a health insurance scheme designed to offer cashless coverage to families below the poverty line and specific occupational categories. RSBY primarily aims to
cover the BPL (Below Poverty Line) population but it also extends its benefits to senior citizens. Its key features include:
Eligibility The scheme covers senior citizens belonging to below-poverty-line families and certain defined occupational categories.
Coverage RSBY provides cashless health insurance coverage for various medical treatments, including hospitalization and surgeries.
Sum Insured The scheme provides coverage of Rs.30,000 annually on a family floater basis.
Smart Card Empanelled hospitals accept smart cards issued to beneficiaries, allowing them to access cashless treatment.
Premium Payment RSBY premiums are shared by both the central and state governments, with no premium contribution needed from beneficiaries.
Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana
The National Health Protection Scheme, popularly known as Ayushman Bharat - Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, is among the biggest health insurance schemes funded by the government. The target is to grant health coverage to more than 500
million vulnerable individuals and families across India. The scheme includes coverage for both hospitalization expenses and pre-hospitalization expenses. Its key features include:
Eligibility Under the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) database, AB-PMJAY extends its coverage to vulnerable individuals and families.
Coverage Coverage for over 1,500 medical procedures is offered by the scheme, including vital treatments like cardiac surgeries, cancer treatment, and organ transplants.
Sum Insured Every year, families are granted up to 5 Lakhs coverage.
Cashless Treatment Empanelled hospitals across the country offer cashless treatment for beneficiaries.
Portability Treatment can be obtained by beneficiaries at any empanelled hospital in India, irrespective of their place of residence.
Senior Citizen Health Insurance Scheme (SCHIS)
The Senior Citizen Health Insurance Scheme is specifically tailored for senior citizens over the age of 60 who lack coverage from another health insurance scheme. Coverage for a diverse set of diseases and therapies is offered by SCHIS.
Its key features include:
Eligibility The scheme is open to senior citizens without any existing health insurance coverage.
Coverage Coverage under SCHIS includes a broad array of diseases and treatments, with immediate coverage for pre-existing conditions.
Sum Insured Coverage up to Rs.5 lakh per individual can be extended to senior citizens.
Cashless Treatment The scheme offers cashless treatment facilities in government and private hospitals.
Premium Payment The central and state governments provide subsidies for the premium of SCHIS.
New India Assurance Senior Citizen Mediclaim Policy
Designed to provide coverage specifically for older adults in India, The New India Assurance's Senior Citizen Mediclaim Policy is a specialized health insurance option. It is a standalone health insurance policy for senior citizens. Its
key features include:
Eligibility Enrollment in this policy is open to individuals aged 60 and above.
Coverage The policy offers coverage for expenses incurred during hospitalization, as well as those before and after it.
Sum Insured The coverage amount ranges from Rs. 1 lakh to Rs. 1.5 lakh, depending on the chosen plan.
Ambulance Expenses Up to a certain limit, the policy covers ambulance charges.
Pre-existing Diseases The policy covers pre-existing diseases after a waiting period.
United India Senior Citizen Health Insurance Policy
The United India Senior Citizen Health Insurance policy is specifically designed to provide healthcare coverage for elderly individuals in India. Its key features include:
Eligibility This policy is open for enrollment to individuals aged between 61 and 80 years.
Coverage Coverage under the policy extends to in-patient hospitalization expenses along with pre-hospitalization, post-hospitalisation costs, and domiciliary hospitalisation.
Sum Insured The coverage amount ranges from Rs.1 lakh to Rs.10 lakhs. The price may vary depending on the selected plan.
Ambulance Expenses The policy offers protection for ambulance expenses up to a specified cap.
Pre-existing Diseases The policy covers pre-existing diseases after a waiting period.
Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY)
The Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) manages the Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana, which is a pension scheme specifically for senior citizens. The scheme for pensions is not linked, not participating, and not unit-linked. Its
key features include:
Eligibility The eligibility criteria for enrollment in the scheme include being aged 60 years and above.
Pension Benefits The scheme guarantees a steady income through a pension for 10 years. The frequency of pension payments can be selected as monthly, quarterly, half-yearly, or annual.
Interest Rate The annual return on PMVVY is fixed at 7.4%.
Pension Amount The highest possible pension under this scheme is restricted to Rs. 1,25,000 per annum.
Death Benefit Should the policyholder die, the nominee or legal heirs will be reimbursed for the purchase price.
Varishtha Pension Bima Yojana(VPBY)
The Government of India introduced the Varishtha Pension Bima Yojana (VPBY) as a retirement plan aimed at offering financial stability and consistent income to elderly individuals. The Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) provides
the Varishtha Pension Bima Yojana as a pension plan exclusively for senior citizens. Its key features include:
Eligibility The scheme is open to individuals aged 60 years and over. No matter your age, you can enrol without any restrictions on the maximum age.
Premium Payment To secure retirement benefits, the individual must invest a lump sum amount upfront.
Lock-in Period The lock-in period for the Varishtha Pension Bima Yojana lasted for 15 years. The policyholder is prohibited from withdrawing the invested amount during this period.
Pension Benefits During a time frame of 10 years, the scheme provides an insured pension income.
Interest Rate Varishtha Pension Bima Yojana offers a guaranteed return on investment.
Loan Facility Upon completion of three years of the policy, policyholders have the option to avail of a loan facility, which offers them financial liquidity during times of necessity.
Varistha Mediclaim Policy
The Varistha Mediclaim Policy is an exclusive health insurance policy created for elderly individuals in India. The purpose is to provide inclusive coverage and financial assurance for the healthcare expenditures of elderly individuals.
Its key features include:
Eligibility Individuals aged 60 years and above can enrol in this policy.
Coverage The policy offers protection for hospitalisation expenses, as well as costs before and after being hospitalised.
Sum Insured The coverage amount varies from Rs. 1 lakh to Rs. 2 lakhs, depending on the chosen plan.
Ambulance Expenses The policy has a maximum coverage amount for ambulance charges.
Pre-existing Diseases The policy covers pre-existing diseases from day one.
Importance of Health Insurance For Senior Citizens
There are various reasons why one should opt for Health Insurance coverage in old age. The following are a few of the reasons:
Financial Protection As one ages, the probability of experiencing health complications grows. Senior citizens frequently require medical attention, regular check-ups, and treatment for chronic illnesses.
Being covered by health insurance guarantees access to essential healthcare services without the need to shoulder the financial costs. Health insurance provides a safety net against unforeseen medical expenses and protects
senior citizens' savings from being depleted.
Access To High-Quality Healthcare Reputed hospitals and healthcare providers offer quality healthcare services to senior citizens through health insurance. It guarantees that they obtain essential medical
care and treatment promptly, with no delays caused by financial limitations. Cashless hospitalisation and reimbursement are additional features offered by health insurance, bringing convenience and peace of mind.
Comprehensive Coverage The need for specialised treatments and medication arises in senior citizens due to age-related ailments. Health insurance plans tailored for senior citizens include coverage for a
broad spectrum of diseases and medical conditions. By offering comprehensive coverage that encompasses hospitalisation expenses and pre and post-hospitalization costs, these plans aim to alleviate any financial stress for senior
citizens seeking essential healthcare services.
Timely Medical Assistance Health insurance coverage enables senior citizens to access timely medical intervention. Managing and treating ailments effectively relies heavily on regular check-ups, preventive
screenings, and early diagnosis of health problems. Senior citizens are often encouraged to prioritize their health and avail of necessary medical services on time through provisions for preventive care in health insurance
plans.
Peace of Mind The presence of health insurance gives peace of mind to elderly individuals and their loved ones. Being assured of financial security and having reliable healthcare services contributes to a
sense of safety. Elderly individuals can prioritize their health and fully embrace their retirement years without the burden of financial concerns related to medical expenses.
In a Nutshell
The well-being and quality healthcare provision for senior citizens in India have been effectively addressed through government health insurance schemes. The government medical scheme for senior citizens financial protection, comprehensive
coverage, and timely medical intervention to enhance their overall quality of life. The exploration and enrollment in suitable health insurance schemes is crucial for senior citizens and their families to secure their health and finances
during their golden years. A secure and healthy future awaits senior citizens who prioritize health insurance.
Niva Bupa Reassure 2.0 provides insurance holders with a high sum insured through their platinum, titanium, and bronze variants along with a multitude of other features.
A health insurance plan designed for parents and senior citizens to protect them in their golden years of life. The plan offers a high SI of up to 50 Lakh INR.
Unique Features
Individual and Family Floater
2 Plan Variants
Up to 50 Lakh INR
Manipal Cigna Prime Senior (Pros)
Low Waiting Periods
Flexible Room Category
Avail Cumulative Bonus
Flexible Health Check-up
Tele-Consultations
Manipal Cigna Prime Senior (Cons)
Injuries Due to Breach of Law
Adventure Sports
Obesity
Cosmetic Surgery
Injuries Due to Illegal Activities
Manipal Cigna Prime Senior (Other Benefits)
Modern Treatment Cover
10 % Cumulative Bonus
Cashless Health Check-Up
Mental Illness Cover
Domiciliary Hospitalization Cover
Manipal Cigna Prime Senior (Eligibility Criteria)
Entry Age - 56 Years
Max Entry Age - 75 Years
SI - 3 L to 50 L
Waiting Period - 30 Days
Activ Health Platinum Enhanced
A unique Plan with features such as a chronic management program, modern treatments, covid-19, and more.
Unique Benefits
High SI
Affordable Premiums
Wellness Benefits
Activ Health Platinum Enhanced (Pros)
Earn 100% Health Return
Cover for Dental Consultations
Modern Treatment Cover
Wellness Coach
Mental Illness Cover
Activ Health Platinum Enhanced (Cons)
Illness due to intoxicants
Change Of Gender Treatment
Hazardous Activity not covered
HIV/AIDS not covered
Cosmetic Surgery unavailable
Activ Health Platinum Enhanced (Other Benefits)
Chronic Management Program
Premium Waiver Benefit
Reload of SI
Road Ambulance Cover
Second e-opinion
Activ Health Platinum Enhanced (Eligibility Criteria)
A plan that covers you and your family offering a sum insured of 5 lakhs to 5 crores. The plan offers 15 different types of discounts.
Unique Features
No Sub-limits on benefits
Robotic surgery for quick recover
90 days free cancellation
Health Infinity Insurance (Pros)
10% Online discount
5% Early Bird Discount
10% Stay Healthy Discount
Credit score discount
Concurrent Disclosure Discount
Health Infinity Insurance (Cons)
No Obesity Treatment Cover
Infertility Treatment Unavailable
No Alternative treatments
Out-patient not covered
Cosmetic Surgery unavailable
Health Infinity Insurance (Other Benefits)
5% Girl Child Discount
Restore Benefit
2.5% Vaccination Discount
5% BMI Discount
2.5 % Renewal Discount
Health Infinity Insurance (Eligibility Criteria)
Entry Age - 3 Months
Max Entry Age - 65 Years
SI - 5 L to 5 Crore
Waiting Period - 30 Days
Government Health Insurance For Senior Citizens : FAQs
1. What does govt medical insurance for senior citizens encompass?
Public health insurance for the elderly means healthcare programs and schemes introduced by the Indian government aiming to offer extensive coverage and economic safety to individuals aged 60 or older. The initiatives
strive to guarantee elderly individuals gain entry to high-quality medical care without financial strain. These initiatives intend to offer senior citizens with top-notch, affordable healthcare procedures.
2. What are the benefits of Government-run health insurance?
Government-run health insurance for older adults provides various advantages. It includes safeguarding their financial resources from medical expenses, enabling them to avail high-quality medical care, offering
comprehensive protection for a broad spectrum of ailments and therapies, promising quick medical response, and granting serenity to the elderly and their family members.
3. What medical coverage initiatives are provided by the Indian government for senior citizens?
There are several public health insurance schemes for senior citizens in the nation, including Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Scheme (AB-PMJAY), Senior Citizen Health Scheme (SCHIS), and Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojan
(PMVVY Scheme). These initiatives are customised for senior citizens and provide various ranges of insurance and benefits.
4. Who's the designated recipient of this government health insurance?
Elderly individuals aged 60 and above and beyond often meet the requirements for public health coverage. Nevertheless, based on the designated program or guideline, the eligibility criteria can differ. Prior to
enrolling, it is crucial to assess the entry conditions for every curriculum.
5. How do senior citizens register for government-funded health insurance plans?
Senior citizens can sign up with the government medical insurance by going to official sites of specific schemes. For other options, people can contact relevant government organisations. The citizens are required
to confirm their age and identity for the enrolment. It is suggested to consult someone with the knowledge of insurance to assure a hassle-free signing up method.
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