Reclassify, Don't Exclude: A Policy Roadmap for IRDAI and Indian Insurers
India is witnessing a steady rise in chronic diseases such as Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS), Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), diabetes , and hypertension . While medical advancements have made these conditions more manageable, health insurance underwriting often continues to treat all chronic diseases as permanent high-risk conditions. A more evidence-based approach can create a fairer and more sustainable insurance system. Why the Current Approach Needs to Change Many insurers continue to classify chronic diseases as pre-existing conditions, leading to: Long waiting periods Coverage exclusions Higher premiums Limited policy options Patients with well-controlled conditions are often assessed the same way as those with active or uncontrolled disease, despite having different health risks. The Growing Need for Reform According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare , more than 8.64 crore people are currently receiving treatment for hypertension and diabetes under the National Programm...