How does health insurance work in India?

Full explanation

Individual/family floater health insurance in India covers hospitalisation, day-care procedures, and pre/post-hospitalisation expenses. Two claim modes: (1) Cashless: at network hospitals, insurer settles directly with hospital — you pay nothing (except non-covered items). (2) Reimbursement: at non-network hospitals, you pay upfront and claim later. Key terms: sum insured (₹3–25 lakh typically), sub-limits (room rent, ICU), co-payment (you pay 10–20% of claim), waiting period for pre-existing conditions (2–4 years). IRDAI regulates all health insurers. Compare plans on Policybazaar, Coverfox.