Cataract surgery is a common medical procedure used to restore vision that has decreased due to clouding of the natural lens of the eye. Prompt and effective cataract surgery treatment is essential to preserve quality of life and avoid vision loss.
Most comprehensive health insurance plans include cataract surgery as part of their coverage, especially when considered medically important. However, it’s essential to understand the criteria and how insurers provide coverage and when.
Keep reading to learn more about the cost of cataract surgery, how insurance helps with treatment coverage, and its factors and benefits.
How Much Does the Cataract Surgery Cost in India?
In India, a cataract operation typically costs between ₹50,000 and ₹1,20,000. The type of cataract surgery you need, your age, the city you live in, and the hospital you choose affect the overall cost. Listed below are the costs of different types of cataract surgeries in India:
- Phacoemulsification Cataract Surgery: For the affected eye, this kind of cataract surgery costs about ₹40,000.
- Extra Capsular Cataract Surgery: The cost of this type of cataract surgery ranges from ₹40,000 to ₹60,000 for the affected eye.
- Bladeless Cataract Surgery: This kind of cataract surgery is more expensive and can cost between ₹85,000 and ₹120,000 because no incision is made.
How Does Health Insurance Help in Reducing Cataract Surgery Costs?
In the event of a medical emergency, health insurance gives an individual the financial support they require. The cataract surgery cost in India is almost fully covered by health insurance.
Here is how having health medical insurance helps:
- Hospitalization costs are covered by medical insurance.
- Provides tax benefits
- Affordable premiums
- Cashless medical care at a partner hospital without worrying about the cost.
- Offer various second opinions from the most well-known medical professionals.
What are the Most Important Factors To Consider in Cataract Health Insurance Coverage?
The important factors that are essential to consider in cataract health insurance coverage are as follows:
Waiting Period
The waiting time for cataract surgery is usually 24 months from the policy start date and is imposed by the majority of health insurance policies. Therefore, understanding these terms is essential to preventing unexpected expenses.
Claim Limits
The amount that can be claimed for cataract surgery is frequently capped by insurance companies. This cap may be a fixed amount or a portion of the total insured. Knowing these limits can help you plan any additional financial arrangements that may be needed.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Cataract coverage is not included in every policy. While some may offer it at a higher insurance level or demand an additional premium, others may incorporate it into a comprehensive plan. So, it is advisable to review the inclusions and exclusions when purchasing a new health insurance.
Who Should Buy Health Insurance for Cataract Surgery?
People over the age of 50 with cataracts need to have top up health insurance . However, in India, insurance coverage for cataract surgery is essential for those who have:
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Family history of cataract
- Excessive exposure to UV rays or ionizing radiation (x-rays, cancer radiation therapy, etc.)
- Eye injury, inflammation or surgery
- Excessive smoking and drinking
- Vitamin deficiency
- Long-term consumption of corticosteroid medicines.
What are the Benefits of Health Insurance Covering Cataract Surgery?
There are several benefits of health insurance for cataract surgery, which are as follows:
- Financial Support: Health insurance provides financial support during and after cataract surgery, easing the burden of medical expenses.
- Access to Quality Healthcare: Insurance coverage often allows access to reputed hospitals and experienced ophthalmologists, ensuring high-quality cataract treatment.
- Comprehensive Family Coverage: Many health insurance plans for family offer coverage for the entire family, which makes it easier to manage healthcare costs for all members, including ageing parents.
- Covers Daycare Treatments: Some insurance plans include cataract surgery under daycare treatments, even if it doesn’t require 24-hour hospitalization.
- Post-Surgery Expense Coverage: Many policies also cover follow-up consultations, medications, and post-operative care, as per policy terms.
Cataract surgery is a crucial procedure for the eyes, especially for those over 50 or with health risks like diabetes or hypertension. In India, most comprehensive health insurance plans cover cataract surgery, providing peace of mind, timely treatment, and long-term vision health.
However, please ensure that you always go through the policy terms before settling for a suitable insurance plan tailored to your needs.
