Most people will assume that their hospitalization expenses are taken care of after signing the dots on their proposal form. Policy documents are put away without first reading the terms and conditions in it. When comes the time to make claim, some are disappointed, leading to finger pointing at insurance agents......
The following reminder is an extract from www.insuranceinfo.com.my which I find important for consumers shopping for a medical hospitalization insurance policy.
1)Buy according to needs and budget
Lower premiums will have lower claim limits, and the amount covered is commensurate with the premiums you pay. Understand what your needs are and how much you can afford to put aside regularly. It also pays to shop around and look at policies from various companies, as these will differ in coverage, benefits and costs.
2)Full disclosure of information
Do not hide anything about your medical history. Some will even ask about immediate family members,. You should never lie, as it can and will result iin claims not being paid.
3)Fully understand your policy
Ask your agent for more information about the policy you want to buy, and do not be shy about it. Understand what the terms and conditions are, as well as the scope of cover provided. You should at least be aware:
i.What is covered (limits of benefits provided)
ii.What is not covered (for example: investigative admission, prosthetic limbs)
iii.Period of cover (if policy renewal is guaranteed after a claim)
iv.Waiting period (the amount of time before you can make the first claim)
v.Annual and lifetime limits
vi.Co-insurance (cost-sharing between insured and insurer)
vii.The amount of premiums to pay (static or increases with age)
4)Be aware of exclusions
There will be a list of conditions and illnesses where claims cannot be made.
5)15 days free-look period
Once you receive the policy documentation, read through it thoroughly and see if you are agreeable to it. If you are not, you can return the policy within 15 days and receive a full refund of premiums (certain costs may be deducted)
6)Claims procedure
Always check with the insurance agent or company before undergoing treatment. They can advise which are their panel clinics, and what you are entitled to. In the case of emergencies nd treatment is sought at a non-panel facility, the insured usually has to pay for it firs, and will be re-imbursed later.
7)Buy additional riders
If required, you can buy extra coverage on your policy (for example, overseas treatment of waiver of the annual limit).
8)Review policy annually
The cost of medical care increases every year. It is prudent to regularly check if the existing coverage meets current costs.
