Page 357 - Ebook health insurance IC27

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suggesting some foods for thought for Government, Regulators, Insurance Companies
to expand the health insurance coverage in India among the masses:-
1. Awareness : This will be the key to success. IRDA should plan extensive media

campaign to popularize the benefits of health insurance to attract common man.
Ministry of Welfare should plan publicity campaigns through government channels
to popularise health insurance. Similarly Insurance companies too must create
awareness about the products in the market.

2. Health Insurance Pool: A health insurance pool should be created in line of Motor
insurance pool to offset the losses in health insurance. The government must also
contribute in this pool upto a certain percentage from its health budget so that this
portfolio remains profitable for insurers and they do not shy away from health
insurance. A portion of claims for senior citizen may be contributed by this pool so
that cover is not denied to senior citizens.

3. Health Insurance Cess: In order to boost up the health expenditure, government
may think of imposing additional cess like Health Cess. This cess will help to create
a reservoir which will help the government to expand health care facilities and also
contribute a portion to the health insurance pool.

4. Health Insurance Regulator: Looking to the size of the health insurance
industry a separate regulator may be instituted or a separate wing may be
created within IRDA to work exclusively on this sector. This regulator must
see that quality healthcare services are available to all persons at reasonable
cost.

5. Grading of Hospitals: Govt. must initiate steps for grading of hospitals according

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