Health Insurance For Brain Tumour Surgery

The brain is a vital organ essential for the proper functioning of the human body. From controlling basic activities such as walking, running, talking, and eating to helping us solve complex mathematical problems, the brain performs all these functions.

However, the rise in sedentary lifestyles, lack of sleep, and excessive stress among individuals have led to an increased risk of brain tumours and other life-threatening central nervous system ailments.

As per data published by the National Library of Medicine:

"The incidence of central nervous system (CNS) tumours in India ranges from 5 to 10 per 100,000 population with an increasing trend and accounts for 2% of malignancies."

Also, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research's Hospital Based Cancer Registry Data (2021):

"Brain tumours accounted for 1.6% relative to all other cancer sites."

Although relatively rare, brain tumours are a significant health issue with the potential to cause severe damage. Does health insurance cover brain tumours? Let's find out.

What Is A Brain Tumour?

A brain tumour is an abnormal tissue mass arising from cells within the brain. More than 150 types of brain tumours exist, broadly categorized into primary and metastatic. Primary brain tumours can be further classified as benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), depending on their potential to affect surrounding tissues.

A brain tumour can be cancerous, making regular health check-ups essential. Treating brain tumours is expensive in India, with average brain surgery costs ranging from INR 1 to 5 Lakhs. Several factors influence the cost of brain tumour surgery in India, such as:

• City of treatment
• Oncologist's fee
• Age of the patient
• Patient's medical condition
• Diagnostic tests
• Hospital fees
• Room rent, and more.

What Are The Symptoms Of Brain Tumour?

Symptoms of a brain tumour can vary depending on its size and location. If you frequently experience any of the following symptoms, consult a neurologist as soon as possible:

• Frequent severe headaches
• Morning headaches accompanied by vomiting
• Brain fog and frequent confusion
• Difficulty in concentrating
• Weakness or numbness on one side of the body, face, or limbs
• Hearing, vision, or speech issues
• Memory problems and difficulty understanding

How Are Brain Tumours Treated?

Brain tumours are treated in various ways, as recommended by your doctor. Treatment options include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or a combination. While cancerous tumours often involve chemotherapy or radiation, treatments vary case by case depending on several factors.

However, the question arises: Does health insurance cover brain surgery in India?

Health Insurance For Brain Tumour Surgery In India

Health insurance in India covers brain surgery treatment. Leading health insurers provide plans that cover expenses for brain tumour surgery, including hospitalization, ICU charges, ambulance charges, pre-hospitalization, post-hospitalization, and more.

Let's look at some health insurance plans for brain tumour surgery, which typically falls under the critical illness category.

If you have a history of critical illnesses in your family, it is advisable to invest in a versatile critical illness health plan. These plans will pay you a lump sum amount upon diagnosis of a brain tumour, if covered by your critical illness health policy. However, you must read the terms and conditions of each plan carefully as not all critical illness health policies cover brain tumours. Health insurance for a brain tumour will clearly state its coverage conditions and any sub-limits.

Waiting Period In Health Insurance For Brain Tumour Surgery

Now that we know health insurance plans cover brain tumour surgery, let's address another important question: Is there a waiting period before coverage begins?

The short answer is yes.

Each health insurance plan for brain tumour surgery has a specific waiting period defined by the insurer. While serving the waiting period, you cannot file a claim for brain surgery treatments. In most cases, critical illness health plans also require you to outlive a survival period. The survival period is a pre-defined duration you must outlive from the date of diagnosis to receive coverage benefits.

Investing in a critical illness health plan or health insurance for brain tumour surgery in India is crucial, as treatment can significantly deplete your life savings. Rising medical inflation and hefty hospitalization bills contribute to the high cost of treating life-threatening ailments like brain tumours.

To Wrap It Up

A brain tumour can be fatal, and early detection is crucial to prevent life-threatening conditions. An early diagnosis can save your life. However, surgical removal of a brain tumour can be expensive. Investing in health insurance coverage for brain tumour surgery is essential to provide financial support during your recovery journey.

Have more questions about brain tumour surgery health coverage in India? Connect with our insurance experts at 1800-4200-269.