Women's health issues differ significantly from those of men. As per a report, some health conditions that affect both men and women have different effects on women. Although the symptoms are the same, the consequences of the medical condition and the treatment required for women might differ dramatically. Further, regardless of whether or not they have children, women require significantly more interaction with medical practitioners during their reproductive years than men their age. 

These are some reasons why it becomes important for women to have a health insurance policy. A health insurance plan will help prevent huge out-of-pocket expenses in case of both planned and unplanned hospitalisations. In this article, let’s take a look at 5 reasons why health insurance is important for women.

Importance Of Health Insurance For Women

1️⃣ Changes in lifestyle

Due to changing lifestyles, women have grown more vulnerable to diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). And, with more and more women joining the workforce, they are responsible for not just their homes, but also their jobs. This adds to their stress levels and contributes to the growth of some of these diseases. A good health insurance plan will protect against unwanted expenses resulting from such health issues. The absence of a suitable cover can wipe off the family's savings in one go. 

2️⃣ Rise in critical illnesses

Cardiovascular disorders, breast cancer, osteoporosis, heart disease, anaemia, and arthritis are among the major critical diseases that women are more prone to than men. These critical illnesses necessitate long-term care, and the expense of living with these critical diseases might be quite significant. Hence, buying women health insurance plans that cover these diseases is important.

3️⃣ Women-specific ailments

Diseases and medical conditions, like uterine fibroids, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, cancers of the reproductive system, pelvic inflammatory disease, etc. are only found in women. A health insurance plan will help manage the finances in case of diagnosis of such medical conditions.

4️⃣ Growing cost of healthcare

While illnesses have gotten more widespread, healthcare has become more expensive. In India, health care inflation is on the rise - and is way more than retail inflation. A healthcare bill of INR 3 Lakhs now would cost INR 30 Lakhs in 30 years due to compounding inflation of 8%. The only thing that can help afford the rising healthcare costs is a health insurance policy.

5️⃣ Rise in maternity costs

With the growing cost of healthcare, maternity expenses are also on the rise. A health insurance policy that includes maternity benefit coverage can be a smart way to manage these expenses. The maternity benefit in health insurance covers costs directly & indirectly related to pregnancy. Every woman planning to have kids in the future should ensure that she has a policy with the maternity benefit add-on. 

So, this was all about why health insurance is important for women. If you have any further questions, you can post them on the Beshak Insurance Forum and get answers from vetted experts, for free!