Timeline for implementing the new IRDAI guidelines for health insurance in India.
1. Elimination of maximum age limit for buying health insurance: This guideline came into effect on April 1, 2024, mandating insurers to offer health policies to individuals of all age groups.
2. Reduced waiting period for pre-existing diseases and specific diseases/procedures: The maximum waiting period for covering pre-existing diseases and specific diseases/procedures has been reduced from 4 years to 3 years. This change is effective from April 1, 2024.
3. Inclusion of severe pre-existing diseases: Health insurance companies are now prohibited from denying health policies to individuals with severe pre-existing diseases like heart disease, cancer, renal failure, and AIDS. This guideline came into force on April 1, 2024.
4. Removal of sub-limits on AYUSH Treatments: Insurers are no longer allowed to impose sub-limits on AYUSH treatments, effective from April 1, 2024.
5. Issuance of guidelines for providing AYUSH coverage in Health Insurance Policies: IRDAI issued these guidelines on January 31, 2024, to be implemented from April 1, 2024.