Best Health Insurance in India in 2025
- OPD, AYUSH and maternity covered in most plans
- 14,000+ network hospitals available
- Fast claim settlement process
- Family floater and individual options
- Optical care not clearly included
- Limited transparency in OPD limits
- OPD, AYUSH and maternity covered in most plans
- 14,000+ network hospitals available
- Fast claim settlement process
- Family floater and individual options
Star Health offers one of the most comprehensive private health insurance plans on the Indian market, with generous inpatient coverage, a robust OPD component including dental and eye consultations (in specific plans), and additional features like maternity and AYUSH care. The claims process is well-documented for being efficient, and the extensive hospital network enhances accessibility. Waiting periods are standard (24–36 months for some benefits), and policy limits are transparent. Although optical and dental benefits depend on the plan selected, the core hospitalization and post-hospitalization cover is one of the most complete in this segment.
Recommended for families, salaried professionals, and elderly individuals looking for broad medical and maternity coverage with a solid hospital network.
For all these reasons, we recommend Star Health & Allied Insurance.
- Broad range of specialized plans and riders
- Reliable claims settlement and customer support
- Inclusive maternity and alternative treatment cover
- Good reputation and large hospital network
- Dental and optical benefits are not standard
- Long waiting periods for specific benefits
- OPD and day-care up to 540 procedures
- Includes AYUSH and wellness benefits
- Hospital cash and recovery benefit
- Strong claim settlement record
- Dental and optical not detailed
- Some plans have longer wait periods
- OPD and day-care up to 540 procedures
- Includes AYUSH and wellness benefits
- Hospital cash and recovery benefit
- Strong claim settlement record
Care Health stands out with high-value hospitalization coverage, long pre- and post-hospitalization durations, and access to AYUSH therapies and OPD services in some plans. Although dental and vision are not widely covered, the base plan is very robust. Wellness programs and preventive care are integrated into several offers. The company’s strong hospital network and good customer experience contribute to its high rating.
Ideal for middle-income families, working professionals and retirees seeking extended post-treatment care and wellness benefits.
For all these reasons, we recommend Care Health Insurance.
- Strong hospital and claims infrastructure
- Coverage up to 180 days post-discharge
- Access to alternative therapies and wellness services
- Digital policy management
- Dental and optical services mostly excluded
- Some plans may require higher premiums for richer benefits
- Includes preventive check-ups & AYUSH
- Large hospital network & brand trust
- Optional wellness & family coverage
- Fast and digital claim processing
- Some limits apply on room rent
- Dental/vision not emphasized
- Includes preventive check-ups & AYUSH
- Large hospital network & brand trust
- Optional wellness & family coverage
- Fast and digital claim processing
ICICI Lombard delivers a strong, dependable offering focused on flexibility and preventive care. OPD, pre/post-hospitalization, and maternity are all supported, and the brand benefits from a trusted financial institution’s backing. AYUSH and other enhancements are included in top-tier plans. Its Health AdvantEdge product is robust, although information on dental and vision benefits is minimal. The digital tools and partner services improve the overall value proposition.
Well-suited to urban professionals and corporate employees seeking preventive health packages and digital ease of use.
For all these reasons, we recommend ICICI Lombard General Insurance.
- Extensive network and reliable customer service
- Preventive health check-ups included
- Customizable plans with multiple riders
- Pre- and post-hospitalization duration above average
- Dental and optical are not broadly addressed
- Entry-level plans may be restrictive
- Restore sum insured automatically
- Covers OPD, AYUSH, and wellness
- Extensive cashless hospital network
- 180 days post-hospital coverage
- LASIK coverage needs conditions met
- Fewer OPD inclusions in base plans
- Restore sum insured automatically
- Covers OPD, AYUSH, and wellness
- Extensive cashless hospital network
- 180 days post-hospital coverage
HDFC ERGO offers a well-structured product line with valuable features such as sum insured restoration and long post-discharge cover. Its Optima Restore plan includes wellness tools, a large hospital network, and a focus on lifestyle benefits. Though dental and vision benefits are unclear, the company’s offering is competitive for its category. Customers benefit from restore features and a seamless claim process.
Great for couples and families looking for post-hospitalization security and digital service access.
For all these reasons, we recommend HDFC ERGO General Insurance.
- Automatic restore of insured sum after claims
- Extensive network and good claim turnaround
- Good wellness program inclusion
- High post-discharge benefit (up to 180 days)
- Lack of transparency on dental/optical inclusions
- Some features only available in top-tier plans
- OPD, AYUSH, wellness and global cover
- Maternity and vaccination included
- Pre/post hospitalization up to 180 days
- Extensive family and top-up options
- Vision and dental terms unclear
- Some benefits have long wait periods
- OPD, AYUSH, wellness and global cover
- Maternity and vaccination included
- Pre/post hospitalization up to 180 days
- Extensive family and top-up options
ManipalCigna combines modern insurance coverage with global hospital access and wellness benefits. The ProHealth line offers OPD, AYUSH, maternity, and pre/post-hospitalization cover with generous durations. While the dental and optical offerings lack detail, the wellness ecosystem and digital integration provide significant value. The inclusion of global coverage on select plans is a major plus.
Ideal for frequent travelers, affluent professionals and health-conscious individuals looking for comprehensive health and wellness insurance.
For all these reasons, we recommend ManipalCigna Health Insurance.
- International treatment coverage in higher-tier plans
- Strong wellness integration and OPD coverage
- AYUSH and maternity included
- Long post-treatment duration covered
- Dental and vision not clearly defined
- May be costlier at higher cover levels
- Maternity, OPD and AYUSH included
- Pre/post hospitalization up to 180 days
- 24x7 digital support and tools
- High claim approval rate
- No clear mention of optical benefits
- OPD coverage limited by geography
- Maternity, OPD and AYUSH included
- Pre/post hospitalization up to 180 days
- 24x7 digital support and tools
- High claim approval rate
Niva Bupa offers solid all-around coverage with a focus on high claim settlement ratios and flexible OPD coverage. Its Health Companion plan includes maternity, wellness, and alternative medicine benefits, while offering long pre- and post-hospitalization durations. Dental and optical care are referenced primarily through OPD services, with little to no detail on routine treatment coverage. The policy is competitively structured and well-integrated into the Indian health system with a strong hospital network and simple digital claims.
Ideal for young professionals, small families, or couples seeking affordable but complete coverage including maternity and wellness benefits.
For all these reasons, we recommend Niva Bupa Health Insurance.
- Excellent claims performance
- Long post-hospitalization coverage (up to 180 days)
- Integrated wellness and maternity features
- Digital process for claims and policy management
- Minimal transparency on dental/vision inclusions
- Maternity benefits may require waiting periods
- HealthReturns rewards healthy lifestyle
- Wellness and OPD covered in some plans
- Maternity and AYUSH included
- Good online service experience
- Long wait for maternity claims (4 yrs)
- Dental and optical rarely offered
- HealthReturns rewards healthy lifestyle
- Wellness and OPD covered in some plans
- Maternity and AYUSH included
- Good online service experience
Aditya Birla Health’s Activ Health Enhanced plan focuses on rewarding healthy lifestyles through HealthReturns and wellness integration. It includes OPD, hospitalization, and limited alternative treatments, with optical consultations and minor benefits for eye care. However, dental services are not part of the standard offerings. Its long-term value increases with active engagement in fitness and health checkups. The plan is designed to blend insurance with preventive health.
Best for active professionals and health-conscious urban dwellers interested in reward-based wellness incentives.
For all these reasons, we recommend Aditya Birla Health Insurance.
- Unique HealthReturns system encouraging physical activity
- Digital wellness integration and fitness tracking
- Good OPD coverage and chronic care support
- Comprehensive hospitalization coverage
- Limited dental and vision support
- Waiting period of 4 years for maternity
- Covers AYUSH, OPD and maternity
- Restore sum insured automatically
- Family discounts and digital tools
- Preventive health checkups available
- Many features only via riders
- Room rent capping in base plans
- Covers AYUSH, OPD and maternity
- Restore sum insured automatically
- Family discounts and digital tools
- Preventive health checkups available
Bajaj Allianz provides a broad hospitalization base, OPD consultations through its Health Prime rider, and wellness support. While coverage is robust for inpatient care, detailed dental and vision benefits are not standard. The plan offers standard pre- and post-hospitalization support, bonus restoration options, and coverage for alternative therapies (AYUSH). Its positioning is safe and solid but slightly behind in terms of innovation and OPD/dental integration.
Suitable for conservative buyers, salaried professionals and families looking for reliable hospitalization coverage with optional OPD services.
For all these reasons, we recommend Bajaj Allianz General Insurance.
- Reinstatement of sum insured available
- Covers AYUSH and wellness elements
- Strong claim reputation and customer base
- Nationwide network of hospitals
- Dental and optical offerings are unclear
- No standout innovation compared to competitors
- AYUSH, OPD and emergency abroad cover
- Digital-first claim processing system
- Customizable sum and add-ons
- Day-care and pre/post hosp. covered
- OPD and wellness are optional add-ons
- Cataract and LASIK need conditions met
- AYUSH, OPD and emergency abroad cover
- Digital-first claim processing system
- Customizable sum and add-ons
- Day-care and pre/post hosp. covered
Digit Health Insurance promotes itself as a digital-first player with a simplified user journey and transparent policies. Its Health Care Plus plan includes hospitalization, OPD, wellness, and alternative medicine, but does not elaborate on dental or optical coverage. Digit’s claim process is highly rated for speed and clarity, especially via mobile. It focuses on value and user-friendly terms but may lack some of the customization and comprehensiveness found in older competitors.
Ideal for young urban professionals and first-time policyholders who want a modern and easy-to-use insurance product.
For all these reasons, we recommend Digit Health Insurance.
- Simple and intuitive digital experience
- Transparent policy terms
- Good customer support and claim resolution
- Includes AYUSH and OPD benefits
- Sparse details on dental and vision care
- May be too basic for large families or complex needs
- Government-owned, trusted insurer
- AYUSH, OPD and maternity included
- Strong cashless hospital coverage
- Affordable plans with daily allowance
- Longer waiting periods than others
- Limited rider or optional cover flexibility
- Government-owned, trusted insurer
- AYUSH, OPD and maternity included
- Strong cashless hospital coverage
- Affordable plans with daily allowance
New India Assurance is one of the most established public sector players, with a wide national reach and government backing. Its Mediclaim plan offers basic hospitalization and OPD care, with coverage for pre/post-hospitalization and day-care procedures. However, the product lags in innovation and lacks defined benefits in dental, optical, and wellness segments. It offers financial security but not the comprehensive ecosystem offered by modern insurers.
Ideal for older individuals, pensioners, and those looking for stability with a public insurer at minimal complexity.
For all these reasons, we do not recommend New India Assurance.
- Government-backed and widely trusted
- Solid inpatient coverage
- Pre/post hospitalization included
- Outdated compared to private competitors
- Lacks wellness, dental, and optical features
- Customer service and claim speed variable
- How does health insurance work in India?
- What health insurance covers
- What does health insurance NOT cover?
- How much does health insurance cost in India?
- How to lower the cost of your health insurance?
- FAQ
Did you know that a single hospitalisation for a critical illness in India can easily exceed ₹3 lakh, with much of this expense not covered by government programmes like Ayushman Bharat? Hospital stays, expensive surgeries, and ongoing treatments are common risks in India, while public health schemes often offer limited benefits or strict eligibility, leaving many families exposed to high medical bills. Long waiting times and restricted access to quality private care are also major concerns for those relying only on the public system. Comparing health insurance policies and choosing the right plan can make a crucial difference in covering both planned and emergency medical expenses, ensuring access to a wider network of top-quality hospitals and faster treatment.
At HelloSafe, our experts regularly analyse and compare dozens of health insurance plans in India to provide independent, detailed, and up-to-date advice tailored to the realities of the Indian market.
How does health insurance work in India?
Private health insurance is increasingly relevant in India due to the limitations of the public healthcare system, known as Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY).
While Ayushman Bharat provides basic health cover mainly to low-income families, its scope is often restricted by limited coverage amounts, long wait times, and access mostly to public hospitals.
Private health insurance, on the other hand, offers faster treatment, higher reimbursement limits, access to a broad network of private hospitals, and direct access to specialists without the need for lengthy referrals.
Additional advantages include the possibility of comprehensive coverage for outpatient, critical illness, and international treatment, making private plans an important option for those seeking more security and flexibility in their healthcare.
What health insurance covers
Health insurance in India generally provides basic cover for hospitalisation, consultations, and prescribed medicines during illness or accidents.
Optional extras may include cover for dental, optical care, maternity, alternative treatments, psychological support, and additional wellness services, which can be added for an increased premium.
Reimbursement is usually offered for expenses actually incurred, either directly paid by the insurer to the hospital (cashless) or refunded upon submission of bills, sometimes after deductibles, with possible waiting periods for certain conditions like maternity or pre-existing diseases.
Unlike Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY), the main public health insurance scheme in India that targets lower-income families and offers limited hospitalisation benefits up to fixed amounts, private health insurance can provide broader, higher, and faster coverage, including access to private hospitals and a wider range of treatments.
Private health insurance is therefore suitable for those seeking flexibility, comprehensive protection, and care beyond public sector limitations.
| Type of cover | Reimbursement by Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) | Coverage with basic private insurance | Coverage with premium private insurance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 💊 General care | Not covered | Partially | Yes |
| 🏥 Hospitalisation | 100% up to annual limit | Yes | Yes |
| 🦷 Dental | Not covered | Optional/No | Optional/Yes |
| 👓 Optical | Not covered | Optional/No | Optional/Yes |
| 🤰 Maternity | Covered (limited) | Optional/Waiting period | Yes/Shorter waiting period |
| 🌿 Alternative medicine | Covered (select AYUSH treatments) | Optional/No | Optional/Yes |
| 🛡️ Preventive care | Not covered | Optional | Yes |
| 🧠 Psychological care | Not covered | Optional/No | Optional/Yes |
| 👂 Hearing aids | Not covered | No | Optional |
| ♨️ Thermal spa treatments | Not covered | No | No |
| ♿ Medical equipment and devices | Not covered | Optional/No | Optional/Yes |
| 🍃 Non-covered alternative treatments (e.g. acupuncture) | Not covered | No | Optional/No |
| ✈️ Medical assistance abroad | Not covered | No | Optional/Yes |
| 💻 Teleconsultation | Not covered | Optional | Yes |
What does health insurance NOT cover?
Most health insurance policies in India do not cover pre-existing conditions for a specified waiting period, which is often between two and four years.
Cosmetic treatments, routine dental and vision care, and experimental procedures are generally excluded from coverage.
Other frequent exclusions include injuries due to self-harm, participation in hazardous sports, or conditions arising from substance abuse.
Limits also apply to maternity benefits, advanced treatments, and certain high-cost medical equipment, and many plans impose caps or sub-limits on specific types of claims.
Always read your policy carefully so you are aware of waiting periods and specific exclusions before purchasing health insurance.
| Exclusion type | Example | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Medical | Pre-existing diseases, cosmetic surgery, experimental drugs | Waiting periods for pre-existing diseases (2–4 years); cosmetic and experimental not covered |
| Administrative | Non-disclosure of information, missed premium payments | Incorrect details or payment lapses can void your insurance |
| Legal | Injury from illegal acts, self-inflicted injury, war | Injuries from such events are always excluded from coverage |
| Benefit limits | Maternity capped, room rent sub-limit, high-cost devices | Sub-limits, annual/overall maximums apply to some claims even if covered |
| Geographic | Treatment outside India | Most policies do not cover international claims unless it’s a global plan |
How much does health insurance cost in India?
The pricing of health insurance in India depends on your age, current and past medical history, type and level of cover, chosen deductible, and how many people are included under the policy.
Premiums are generally lower for younger individuals and increase with age or after adverse health events are declared.
Choosing a more comprehensive plan with higher coverage, fewer exclusions, or no deductible will result in higher monthly premiums, while selecting a higher deductible can lower your cost.
Premiums may also rise annually due to inflation, changes in your health condition, previous claims history, and if you choose to extend your cover to more family members.
Insurers adjust premiums in Indian rupees (INR) to reflect these risks and rising healthcare expenses each year.
| Age group | Cover type | Monthly premium (basic) | Monthly premium (premium) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 years | Basic | ₹350 | ₹1,100 |
| 45 years | Basic | ₹700 | ₹1,900 |
| 65 years | Basic | ₹2,000 | ₹4,000 |
How to lower the cost of your health insurance?
| Tip | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Compare offers | Use the HelloSafe comparison tool at the top of the page to easily identify the cheapest coverage that fits your needs. |
| Opt for higher deductibles | Choosing a higher voluntary deductible can reduce your regular premium as you agree to pay more during a claim. |
| Choose family floater plans | A single family floater plan is often more affordable than buying separate individual policies for each member. |
| Avoid unnecessary add-ons | Only select add-ons or riders you really need to keep your total premium lower. |
| Stay healthy and disclose honestly | Insurers may offer wellness discounts or renewal bonuses if you maintain good health and have no claims. |
| Buy at a younger age | Taking health insurance while young secures lower premiums and helps avoid waiting periods for pre-existing diseases. |
| Review your policy yearly | Periodically reassess your cover and switch if better value or lower premiums are found elsewhere. |
| Select insurers with no-claim bonuses | Some providers reward you with increased coverage or lower premiums for each claim-free year. |
FAQ
Is health insurance mandatory in India?
Health insurance is not mandatory in India, but getting covered is highly recommended as out-of-pocket medical costs can be significant, especially for private hospitalisation or unforeseen medical emergencies. The Government of India operates schemes like Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) for eligible citizens, but private health insurance helps in providing comprehensive protection.
What is a waiting period in Indian health insurance?
A waiting period is a set time at the start of your policy during which certain treatments, illnesses, or pre-existing conditions are not covered. Most health insurance policies in India have waiting periods of up to 4 years for pre-existing diseases and usually 30 days for most new illnesses unless caused by an accident.
Can I claim health insurance benefits for COVID-19 treatment?
Yes, most health insurance policies issued in India cover hospitalisation and treatment expenses related to COVID-19, as per the guidelines set by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI). Always check the limits, waiting period, and terms of your policy to confirm the exact COVID-19 benefits.
What is a cashless hospitalisation facility?
Cashless hospitalisation allows you to receive treatment at network hospitals without making upfront payments for covered expenses. The insurer settles the hospital bill directly with the healthcare provider, subject to policy limits, so you only pay expenses not covered by your health insurance.
Can I port my health insurance policy to another insurer?
Indian regulations allow you to port your health insurance policy to a different insurer at renewal without losing accrued benefits such as waiting periods. You must request portability at least 45 days before renewal, and your new insurer will decide on acceptance after reviewing your health and claims history.
Does health insurance in India cover day care procedures?
Most modern health insurance policies in India cover a wide range of day care procedures that do not require 24-hour hospitalisation, such as cataract surgery or chemotherapy. Check your policy for the specific list of covered day care treatments.
What is the difference between individual and family floater health insurance?
An individual health insurance policy covers a single person for a fixed sum assured, while a family floater policy provides shared coverage for multiple family members under a single sum insured. Family floater plans are ideal for families looking for flexibility and are often more affordable per person.
Is health insurance mandatory in India?
Health insurance is not mandatory in India, but getting covered is highly recommended as out-of-pocket medical costs can be significant, especially for private hospitalisation or unforeseen medical emergencies. The Government of India operates schemes like Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) for eligible citizens, but private health insurance helps in providing comprehensive protection.
What is a waiting period in Indian health insurance?
A waiting period is a set time at the start of your policy during which certain treatments, illnesses, or pre-existing conditions are not covered. Most health insurance policies in India have waiting periods of up to 4 years for pre-existing diseases and usually 30 days for most new illnesses unless caused by an accident.
Can I claim health insurance benefits for COVID-19 treatment?
Yes, most health insurance policies issued in India cover hospitalisation and treatment expenses related to COVID-19, as per the guidelines set by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI). Always check the limits, waiting period, and terms of your policy to confirm the exact COVID-19 benefits.
What is a cashless hospitalisation facility?
Cashless hospitalisation allows you to receive treatment at network hospitals without making upfront payments for covered expenses. The insurer settles the hospital bill directly with the healthcare provider, subject to policy limits, so you only pay expenses not covered by your health insurance.
Can I port my health insurance policy to another insurer?
Indian regulations allow you to port your health insurance policy to a different insurer at renewal without losing accrued benefits such as waiting periods. You must request portability at least 45 days before renewal, and your new insurer will decide on acceptance after reviewing your health and claims history.
Does health insurance in India cover day care procedures?
Most modern health insurance policies in India cover a wide range of day care procedures that do not require 24-hour hospitalisation, such as cataract surgery or chemotherapy. Check your policy for the specific list of covered day care treatments.
What is the difference between individual and family floater health insurance?
An individual health insurance policy covers a single person for a fixed sum assured, while a family floater policy provides shared coverage for multiple family members under a single sum insured. Family floater plans are ideal for families looking for flexibility and are often more affordable per person.
