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Health insurance amendments made for the changing lifestyle

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Est read time 3 Minutes Published on 23^rd Feb 2020

A lot has changed since the pandemic hit us. You can observe these changes in your lifestyle. Are you eating more than usual? Have you stopped exercising? Has the number of hours you spend in front of a computer increased? Are you consuming more alcohol or have started chain-smoking? Most of you are likely to answer the above questions with a Yes, which is a problem. This sedentary lifestyle directly conflicts with the welfare of your body and mind, especially during COVID-19 when fitness and good health is paramount for beating the novel coronavirus. Unfortunately, it does not end there. 

Lifestyle changes in recent times

1. Lack of exercise: The pandemic has forced people to be home to stay safe and prevent the spread. Hence, many are leading a sedentary lifestyle and spending a lot of time watching TV, playing online games, and reading books. Although many gyms and yoga centres have opened now, people are still sceptical about visiting these places. This reduced mobility raises the risk of heart conditions, obesity, and more. 
2. Excessive use of technology: Advances in technology and competition at the workplace have brought about major changes in our lifestyle. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many work from home and are glued to the laptop and mobile phone for more than the required 9 hours. As a result, many people suffer from eye problems such as increased eye power, blurry vision, etc. and neural issues such as headaches, migraines, etc.  
3. Packaged fast foods: People are also consuming more convenience or pre-cooked foods due to lack of time. These foods are full of preservatives and other harmful ingredients that may harm your health. Convenience foods may also increase the possibility of lifestyle diseases, such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, stroke, and more. 
4. Stress: As the pandemic continues to spread, people are concerned about the well-being of their loved ones, and stress levels are on an all-time high. Excessive use of gadgets and lack of physical activity is also affecting mental health. All these have increased headaches, migraines, digestive discomfort, depression, and other conditions. Obesity, alcoholism, and chain-smoking have also become common.
   

How can lifestyle affect your health insurance premium today?

A policyholder’s lifestyle plays a vital role in determining health insurance premium rates. Here are some ways in which your lifestyle can affect the premium of your health insurance plan.

1. Obesity and pre-existing health conditions: If you are obese or suffer from certain health conditions, such as diabetes, sleep apnea, cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), you will have to pay a higher premium for your health plan.
2. Smoking and drinking alcohol: Health insurance premium rates are higher for heavy smokers and alcoholics. Smoking and alcohol consumption elevates the risk of liver cirrhosis, high blood pressure, gastric problems, lung conditions, pancreatitis, and other health complications. All these increase the chances of you availing of treatment and filing a claim with the insurance company. Hence, insurers charge a higher premium from smokers and alcoholics.
3. Fitness: If you are fit and have no pre-existing conditions, your insurer may offer a discount on your policy premium. On the other hand, people who are unhealthy and have a high body mass index (BMI) will have to pay a higher premium than those with a normal BMI. The reason is that a high BMI can lead to diabetes, heart conditions, joint ailments, and more.
4. Work environment: This is an important factor taken into consideration. If you work in a safe environment and are not exposed to harmful chemicals and dangerous machines, your premium will be lower. On the other hand, if you work in a factory or any place with a high risk of radiation, chemical abuse, and more, you will have to pay a higher premium for your health plan.
5. No-claim bonus: If you do not make a single claim during the policy term, your insurer will offer you a no-claim bonus discount on your policy premium. Hence, you have to pay a lesser amount for policy renewal.
   

Importance of good health and fitness

Staying fit and healthy is one of the best ways to be safe from the pandemic and other diseases. Here are some tips:

1. Balanced diet: Have a balanced diet, consisting of fruits, vegetables, protein, grains, and healthy fats. This will help boost your immune system, antioxidant defences, and overall well-being. It would help if you also stayed away from processed foods and sugary beverages.
2. Exercise regularly: Staying fit and active strengthens the bones and muscles, keeps weight in check, and alleviates the risk of conditions.
3. Stay hydrated: Water is important for healthy digestion, circulation, transportation of nutrients, and maintaining body temperature. Hence, make sure you drink at least 2 litres of water every day for better health.
4. Sleep well: Get around 7-8 hours of sleep every night for a healthy and happy life. Adequate sleep is vital for your immune system, heart health, brain function, digestion, and overall well-being.

Conclusion:

Following healthy lifestyle habits is essential for all, especially now when the entire world deals with the COVID-19 pandemic. Apart from this, make sure you get a health insurance plan for yourself and your loved ones to stay covered during medical emergencies. There are specific policies such as health insurance for elderly parents, women, etc. that can be taken to meet the exact needs of the specific category. You can visit the insurance provider’s website and choose a health insurance policy that best suits your requirements. 

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purpose only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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