Health Insurance Portability

Health Insurance Portability is an option provided to policyholders under IRDAI regulations to switch between insurance providers for better coverage and benefits. It is available across all insurers and ensures continuity in coverage without the loss of earned benefits.

Example

Let us consider that you have pre-existing health conditions and are not satisfied with the service from your current insurance provider. You may now be considering a switch to TATA AIG for better support and coverage.

If you have completed the waiting period for a pre-existing condition with your current insurer, you may worry about going through it again after switching.

With health insurance portability, you don’t have to start over. The waiting period that you have completed will be accounted for and carried forward to your health insurance policy with us. You can also carry forward your No Claim Bonus and other accumulated policy benefits.

Dissatisfaction with the Current Insurer

If you are frequently facing delays in claim processing, unclear communication or poor customer support, it is a clear sign that your insurer is not meeting basic service standards. If your insurer is not supportive when you need help the most, it is a valid reason to consider switching.

Getting Limited Coverage

You might realise that your current policy does not cover certain treatments, hospital networks, or essential health needs. If you prefer more comprehensive coverage, like maternity benefits, mental health care or wellness services, switching is the right choice.

Inability to Increase Coverage

Your health needs can evolve over time, and so should your insurance policy. If your current insurer restricts your ability to upgrade your sum insured or does not offer add-on covers for conditions you are at risk for, it may be time to port.

Rising Premiums Without Added Value

A health plan that offers broader coverage at a more reasonable premium is a big win. If your policy premiums are increasing every year without any improvement in coverage or benefits, it's worth exploring better options.

Need Fewer Restrictions

Policies with long waiting periods, sub-limits, or too many exclusions can feel restrictive. If you prefer a more flexible plan with fewer conditions, it can be a major incentive to consider medical insurance portability.

Limited Network Hospitals

Your insurer’s hospital network plays a big role during emergencies. If the list of empanelled hospitals is too short or does not include quality options in your city, this can be a serious drawback.

Changes in Healthcare Needs

Over time, you may need additional services like annual health check-ups, wellness support or coverage for your growing family. If your current plan does not cater to these evolving needs, porting gives you the flexibility to choose a policy that does.

Need Hassle-Free Claim Process

When it comes to health insurance, claim settlement is where trust is built. A smooth and transparent claim process makes all the difference. If your current insurer has a complicated or delayed settlement system, consider portability for a faster and simpler claim settlement process.

Also Read: How Does Health Insurance Work in India?

As per the IRDAI guidelines, every policyholder is entitled to the following guidelines.

• Freedom to Choose Any Insurer: You can port your policy to or from any general or standalone health insurance provider of your choice.

• Applies to Individual & Family Policies: Both individual and family floater plans are eligible for portability.

• Waiting Period Credit Must Be Honoured: Your new insurer must provide credit for the waiting period already served for pre-existing conditions with your previous insurer.

• Minimum Sum Insured Must Be Maintained: The new insurer must offer at least the same sum insured as your old policy.

• Timely Processing Is Mandatory: Both insurers are bound to complete the porting process within the timelines specified by the IRDAI regulations.

The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) sets the health insurance portability rules to ensure a smooth and seamless switching process.

• Porting Allowed Only at Renewal: You can port your policy only at the time of renewal. The new policy term will begin once the porting process is completed.

• Terms May Change: The coverage, premium and other benefits are subject to the new insurer’s policy terms and conditions.

• Advance Intimation is Required:

• At least 45 days before renewal, you must notify your current insurer in writing about your intent to port

• Mention the name of the insurer you wish to port to

• Continuous Required: Ensure the policy is renewed without any break (a 30-day grace period applies if the porting process is underway).

To streamline the process, IRDAI has introduced a digital platform that stores data on individual health insurance policies. This allows the new insurer to easily access your policy and claim history, making the switch smooth and transparent.

• Seamless Portability Process - With TATA AIG, you can be assured of a seamless porting experience backed by transparent processes and responsive customer support.

• Affordable Health Insurance Plans - Our health insurance plans start at an affordable premium of just ₹17/day.

• Extensive Coverage - Benefit from comprehensive coverage with a sum insured of up to ₹3 crores.

• Optional Covers - Choose from over 30 health insurance add-ons to customise your health insurance coverage based on your specific needs.

• Customer Service - TATA AIG prioritises customer satisfaction. We have a dedicated customer support team for prompt claim assistance and personalised support.

• Network of Hospitals - Access quality healthcare from our wide network of over 12,000 hospitals across India.

• Online Renewals - Renew your health insurance policy online in a few simple steps.

• Hassle-free Claim Settlements - Experience a smooth and stress-free claim process, whether you opt for cashless or reimbursement claims.

Transitioning your health insurance policy seamlessly through the portability process involves a structured series of steps outlined by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI).

To ensure a smooth health insurance portability online, follow this step-by-step guide:

• Apply in Advance: Initiate the portability process by informing your current insurer at least 45 days before your policy expires.

• Inform TATA AIG: Inform TATA AIG about your intention to port health insurance. You can contact us on our helpline number or any other suitable mode of communication.

• Forms and Plan Presentation: We will furnish the necessary forms and present a range of health insurance plans and optional covers/ riders.

• Plan Selection and Document Submission: Choose the health insurance plan that aligns best with your healthcare requirements. Submit all the required documents. Our Relationship Manager can guide you through the process.

• Information Assessment: We will review your application along with your prior claims history and medical records. This data is obtained from your previous insurer or through the regulator's data-sharing platform.

• Decision Period: We will evaluate your portability request and share the decision within 15 days of receiving your application and relevant documents.

• Identity Proof: A valid and government-issued identity proof is a fundamental requirement. This could include your Aadhar card, passport, voter ID, or any other accepted identification document.

• Address Proof: It is crucial to provide current and valid proof of address. Accepted documents may include utility bills, rental agreements, or government-issued residence proof.

• IRDA Portability Form: The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) mandates that a specific portability form be completed. This form serves as a formal request to port your health insurance policy.

• Proposal Form: Fill out the TATA AIG proposal form. This document outlines your health history, existing coverage details, and the proposed terms for the new policy.

• Existing Insurance Policy: You must furnish a copy of your current health insurance policy. This will help us understand your current coverage and facilitate a seamless transition.

• Claim History (if applicable): If you have a claims history with your current insurer, providing a detailed claim history is necessary. This information helps assess your risk profile and process your portability request smoothly.

• Declaration of No Claims (if applicable): If you have not made any claims during a specific period, a declaration of no claims may be required. You can get this from your current insurer.

• Relevant Medical History Documents: Any medical history documents relevant to your health condition may be requested. This could include prescriptions, diagnostic reports, or other pertinent medical records

Group health insurance offered by your employer is a helpful benefit, but it may not always be enough. It is usually limited in coverage, does not continue after you leave the job and may not fully address your personal health needs. That is why many people choose to port from a group plan to an individual health insurance policy—and if you are thinking of doing the same, you are on the right track.

Here is how to make a smooth and smart switch to an individual TATA AIG health insurance plan:

Step 1: Understand What Your Group Plan Offers

Before anything else, go through the details of your existing group health plan. Most group plans have basic coverage, and while they offer immediate protection without a waiting period, they may not give you long-term security.

Step 2: Assess Your Personal Health Needs

Unlike a group plan, an individual health insurance policy is all about you. Think about your age, any pre-existing conditions, planned surgeries or lifestyle-related risks. If you have family members who also rely on your coverage, consider exploring a family floater policy from TATA AIG that covers everyone under one premium.

Step 3: Explore Individual Health Plans

With TATA AIG, you will find health plans that come with several lucrative features. You can prioritise choosing a plan that not only meets your current health needs but also supports your future well-being.

Step 4: Initiate the Portability Process

Inform your employer about your intent to port your group health insurance to an individual health insurance plan with TATA AIG. You also need to inform us about the portability, and you may contact us on our helpline number or any other suitable mode of communication.

Step 5: Submit the Documents

Complete the portability form and submit your previous policy documents, medical history (if required) and other basic paperwork. Depending on your age and medical background, you may also be asked to undergo a health check-up.

Step 6: Wait for Approval

TATA AIG will assess your application and let you know once your individual plan is approved. In the meantime, ensure there is no break in your coverage—continue your group plan until the switch is complete.

Step 7: Confirm the Switch

Once your new individual plan is active, inform your employer or HR department (if necessary) and confirm the group policy has been discontinued.

• Flexibility and Choice: Health insurance portability allows you to switch between insurers or plans based on changing needs. This empowers you to choose coverage that aligns better with your evolving health requirements.

• Continuity of Benefits: Portability ensures the continuity of benefits earned under the previous policy, such as no-claim bonuses and waiting period credits for pre-existing conditions. Policyholders do not lose out on the advantages they have accumulated.

• Cost Savings: You may find cost-effective options providing similar or improved coverage at more affordable premiums. This cost-saving potential is a significant advantage for individuals seeking financial efficiency in their health insurance.

• Better Customer Service: Dissatisfaction with the customer service of the current insurer is a common reason for portability. Switching health insurance for better customer service allows you to experience improved responsiveness and efficiency.

• Adaptability to Life Changes: Changes in residency, employment, or life circumstances may necessitate a switch in health insurance coverage. Portability allows you to adapt policies to new situations, ensuring continued and relevant coverage.

• Underwriting Considerations: During the portability process, underwriting assessments may be conducted, considering the policyholder's health status, age, and other factors. Based on the overall risk profile, this could lead to revised terms, exclusions or increased premiums.

• Waiting Periods and Exclusions: Some waiting periods and exclusions may still apply, especially for pre-existing conditions. However, there can be other waiting periods and exclusions specific to certain types of coverage

• Policy Terms at Discretion: The terms of the new policy, including premium rates and coverage details, are decided based on the underwriting guidelines. While every effort is made to offer the required coverage, some changes in terms may be applicable.

• Process Complexity: The portability process involves submitting detailed documentation and adhering to specific timelines. To ensure a seamless transition, it is important to follow the process and timelines diligently.

• Time It Right: You can only port your health insurance policy around the time of renewal. So be sure to check your renewal date and start the process at least 45 days in advance.

• Compare Coverage Wisely: TATA AIG offers various health insurance plans that can be customised to suit your specific health care requirements. Take time to compare health insurance online to make an informed decision.

• Review Policy Exclusions: Carefully review the policy document to understand specific terms, conditions and exclusions. This will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free claim settlement process

• Incomplete Information: If the details you provide during the porting process are unclear or missing, the portability request may not be processed.

• Late Porting Request: Portability can only be requested at the time of policy renewal. If your policy has already been renewed, the request may not be accepted.

• Frequent Claims History: If multiple claims have been made under your existing policy, this may impact the approval of your porting application.

• Missing Policy Documents: Your previous policy document is required to process your portability request. Without it, the request may be denied.

• Age Limit Exceeded: Each plan has a maximum age limit. If you are beyond this limit, porting may not be applicable.

• Policy Conditions: If certain health conditions or requirements do not align with the policy terms, the porting request may be denied.

• Break-ins in Renewal: If you have missed paying the premium beyond the grace period, it is regarded as a break in the policy. Porting requests get rejected in such cases.

• Expired Policy: If your existing health insurance policy has lapsed or expired, porting is denied.

Health insurance is not just a safety net but an essential part of your financial and personal well-being. Whether you are porting from a group policy or simply seeking more robust protection, choosing the best health insurance policy makes all the difference.

With TATA AIG, you secure comprehensive medical coverage and gain the flexibility, transparency and trust that come with one of India’s most reliable insurers.

Plus, you can customise your health insurance coverage with sum insured options starting from ₹5 lakhs and going up to ₹3 crore.

Your health is your biggest asset; protect it with a plan that is built for your needs today and tomorrow. Choose the best health insurance policy with TATA AIG and take the first step toward a healthier, more secure future.