The adoption of retail health insurance has seen a significant increase among women in non-metro cities post-COVID-19, with a 37% year-on-year (Y-o-Y) growth from 2020 to 2024, compared to 24% growth in metro cities. According to Niva Bupa Health Insurance Company Limited, women currently account for 19% of overall policy proposers, with a significant rise in the number of women purchasing health insurance for themselves and their families, with a growth of 2.4 times since COVID-19.
The company’s analysis of health insurance claims reveals that 45% of all claimscome from women, with a higher percentage in the South zone and metro cities. The most common health issues affecting women are infections, genito-urinary diseases, malignant cancer treatments, digestive issues, respiratory issues, and eye-related concerns. The analysis also highlights that women’s health issues tend to emerge around the age of 35, with young adults (28-35 years) accounting for 17% of all claims, middle-aged women (36-54 years) accounting for 40%, and elderly women (55 years and above) accounting for 22%.
The company’s data shows that the top six ailments for which women seek treatment in hospitals are infections, genito-urinary diseases, malignant cancer treatments, digestive issues, respiratory issues, and eye-related concerns. Infants and kids suffer mainly from seasonal issues and respiratory concerns, while young adults experience the most claims related to maternity and related check-ups. In middle age, the top three reasons for claims are eye-related issues, followed by cardiovascular and musculoskeletal disorders. Elderly women mostly make claims for serious concerns like malignant cancer cells, genito-urinary treatments, and cardiovascular disorders.
Nimish Agrawal, EVP & CMO of Niva Bupa Health Insurance, noted that the increasing participation of women in health insurance is an encouraging sign of financial empowerment and healthcare awareness, and the company is committed to ensuring that women have access to the right coverage and take charge of their health and financial well-being.