There are around 2.68 crore people in India who are living with a disability, according to the Census 2011. Millions of individuals with disability aim to lead an independent and financially secure life. It is inspiring to read stories about differently-abled people who brave all the challenges and find their path to success. Technological advancements have been instrumental in providing a quality life to these individuals. We see there are disabled-friendly facilities in the Metro and other public places designed for their convenience. Also, there are central government schemes for differently abled individuals. Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) can also enjoy tax benefits. They can avail of deductions under Section 80U of the Income Tax Act.
Moreover, differently-abled people deserve all the medical care facilities for healthy living. There are health insurance companies like Care Health Insurance which offer health coverage to persons with disabilities. Individuals with disabilities can avail of the best health cover based on their medical needs. Having high insurance coverage will ensure they can manage the expenses that arise from medical treatment.
Read on to know how differently-abled persons can lead a worry-free life.
Persons with Disabilities - Definition
Recently, The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, replaced the Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunity Protection of Rights and Full Participation) Act, 1995. The new act aims to protect the rights of persons with disabilities. It considers 21 disabilities, including Speech and Language Disability and Specific Learning Disability. According to this act, a ‘person with disability’ is a person with long term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairment which, in interaction with barriers, hinders his full and effective participation in society equally with others.
Health Insurance – A Financial Safety Cushion for Differently-Abled
Health insurance is vital in the day and age that we are living in; it saves one from financial difficulty caused by medical emergencies. People suffering from conditions like congenital disability, accidental disability, and mental disorders or illness are also eligible to avail of a health insurance policy. Owing to their medical conditions, they could face higher health risks. A person with a disability can consider the estimated medical expenses and go for a suitable policy.
An accidental disability occurs during unforeseen situations. Accidents can lead to temporary or permanent disability. For any individual, opting for accident insurance will offer protection by providing coverage for various expenses.
It is essential to know about the procedure and documents required for buying health insurance for disabled person. An individual is also required to furnish relevant details, including any disability. The policy is issued on the basis of tele-underwriting and degree of disability.
Healthcare costs are rising steadily. So, buying a health cover early in life will be beneficial for one and all.
>>Read: What are the Things a Disabled Person Should Consider Before Buying Health Insurance?
Government Benefits for Differently-abled
The central government has introduced benefits for the welfare of persons who have a disability.
- Swavlamban Health Insurance Scheme: It is a group health insurance/family floater that provides affordable health cover of up to Rs 2 lakh to persons with disabilities such as blindness, low vision, and other specified disabilities.
- Niramaya (Health Insurance Scheme): This scheme offers an affordable health insurance cover of up to Rs 1 lakh for persons with disabilities and enables access to treatment without financial worries.
Conclusion
It is important to note that only people with disabilities that belong to families with an annual income lower than Rs 3 Lakh are eligible for government schemes for differently-abled like the Swavlamban Health Insurance Scheme. Differently-abled individuals who look for such financial assistance can also opt for a separate health cover and safeguard their finances.
People with disabilities deserve all the support and medical care to lead a worry-free life. With growing awareness and efforts by the government, they can easily overcome the challenges in life. Moreover, having a health cover guarantees financial safety. The financial support they can get in the form of health insurance is significant as it allows them to take care of their health without worrying about expensive medical treatments. Instead, they can focus on achieving their goals in life while continuing to inspire others.
Disclaimer: Plan features, benefits, coverage, and underwriting of claims are subject to policy terms and conditions. Please refer to the brochure, sales prospectus, and policy documents carefully.
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