Is Knee Replacement Covered Under Health Insurance?

As you grow old, due to wear and tear, the knees become weak, and sometimes you may -need to undergo knee replacement surgery. But, does the treatment cover your health insurance policy ? Read on to know more.As people grow old, the body starts becoming weaker. And, many face difficulties with carrying out their daily activities. Most older people complain of pain in the joints and muscles, especially in the knees. In most cases, people with knee pain need knee replacement surgery.Thankfully, many insurance companies provide coverage for knee replacement surgeries under a standard health insurance policy. You can even purchase a special standalone knee replacement policy in India. Let us know more about it.If you have been experiencing a nagging pain in your knees and if the doctor recommends undergoing knee replacement surgery, it can be a life-changing decision. The surgery may not only put you under physical and mental strain, but it can also have a significant impact on your finances.With the ever-rising medical costs, a knee replacement surgery can cost anywhere between five lakhs and 10 lakh Rupees. And in the absence of a robust health insurance policy, it can deplete your savings.

A few decades ago, the insurance companies often rejected the claim for a knee replacement surgery as the surgery's definition fell in the grey area. However, this has changed recently. Today, many reputed insurers cover the surgery cost under the plan and honour the claim as per the policy's terms and conditions.However, if you have been holding the same health insurance policy for many years, it would be advisable to contact the insurer and know about the coverage terms before undergoing surgery. Typically, insurers agree to partially (up to 50%) cover the expenses, especially if you hold an old policy.

All standard health insurance policies come with a specific waiting period, ranging from a few months to few years. The waiting period may be different for different illnesses and pre-existing conditions. During the waiting period, you cannot file a claim. So, before undergoing surgery, it is advisable to review the waiting period of your policy.

Many people in India are unaware that they can purchase a special standalone insurance policy for knee replacement surgery. This is because, initially, knee replacement was considered a cosmetic procedure, which is not covered under the regular healthcare plans.With the significant increase in the number of claims filed for knee replacement surgeries over the last decade, many government-run insurance companies started offering knee replacement insurance policy. And, soon, the private insurers followed suit. So, today, you can find various knee replacement surgery insurance policies with different coverage options. Make sure that you compare the plans and choose the one that offers maximum coverage and other benefits. Final Word While you cannot predict any ailment, it is in your best interest to remain fit and active to keep the illnesses at bay. Following a healthy lifestyle where you eat a healthy diet and workout regularly will help you keep the muscles and bones healthy and reduce the chances of any surgeries. Also, it may take about one to three months after the treatment to regain strength and fully recuperate in case of knee replacement surgery.If you have old-aged in your family, it is better to invest in a robust knee replacement health insurance plan at an early stage so that you can easily see through the waiting period and get your claim reimbursed when required in the future.

The information contained herein is generic in nature and is meant for educational purposes only. Nothing here is to be construed as an investment or financial or taxation advice nor to be considered as an invitation or solicitation or advertisement for any financial product. Readers are advised to exercise discretion and should seek independent professional advice prior to making any investment decision in relation to any financial product. Aditya Birla Capital Group is not liable for any decision arising out of the use of this information.