Empowering women: Unlocking the vitality of health insurance

Today’s women effortlessly navigate various roles – as daughters, mothers, life partners, confident professionals, and entrepreneurs with remarkable skill. Yet, amidst balancing personal and professional life, are they prioritizing their own well-being enough? In a rapidly evolving landscape where women’s roles and rights are increasingly acknowledged and celebrated, the need to prioritize women’s health has never been more urgent.

Empowerment is now widely acknowledged as a key driver of progress, underscoring the importance of women taking charge of their health. This imperative extends beyond mere medical coverage, urging women to embrace self-care for a brighter, healthier future for themselves and their families.

Health insurance emerges as a crucial component in this endeavour, providing a safety net for accessing vital healthcare services and mitigating the financial burden associated with medical care. It transcends traditional healthcare boundaries, becoming a holistic investment in women’s resilience, vitality, and empowerment across various spheres of life.

It is important to understand that women have unique health needs that differ from men, spanning reproductive health, breast health, hormonal fluctuations, and mental well-being. However, these specific concerns are often overlooked by generic health insurance plans. Comprehensive women’s health insurance not only provides medical coverage but also offers financial empowerment. This ensures women have the means to access necessary care without financial constraints, leading to better health outcomes and improved quality of life. These comprehensive women’s health insurance plans offer crucial support by covering various aspects such as maternity care, gynaecological issues, cancer, and critical illnesses. They also prioritize preventive care through screenings, annual check-ups, and mental health support, along with additional benefits like senior care and value-added services tailored for women.

It’s noteworthy that women’s interest in health insurance varies due to a range of factors. Access to information, economic constraints, cultural norms, and reliance on alternative healthcare options can influence their perception of the need for coverage. Some women may already be covered under their partner’s plans, while others, particularly younger individuals, may perceive themselves as less vulnerable to health issues. Addressing these factors through increased awareness, improved access, and financial support can contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the importance of health insurance among women.

Ruchika Malhan Varma
Chief Marketing Officer
Future Generali India Insurance India Company Ltd.

Traditionally, women in India have been relatively underinsured compared to men. This discrepancy can be attributed to various factors, including lower financial literacy among women, limited access to formal financial institutions, and societal norms influencing women’s financial decision-making. According to National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), only 30 percent of women aged 15–49 are covered by health insurance or a health scheme.

Efforts have been made to bridge this gap in recent years, with insurance companies and government initiatives aiming to enhance financial inclusion for women. The aim is not merely to address ailments but to cultivate a culture where women are informed, proactive stewards of their own health, fostering a ripple effect that extends far beyond individual well-being. Comprehensive women’s health insurance goes beyond mere medical coverage. It empowers women with financial security, ensuring they can access necessary care without facing financial constraints. This translates to better health outcomes, improved quality of life, and peace of mind.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of ET Edge Insights, its management, or its members

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