The northern plains of India are currently grappling with one of the worst air pollution crises in years. The Air Quality Index (AQI) has persistently remained in the ‘severe’ category, with some areas hitting the maximum level of 500. The air has become ‘unbreathable,’ with many experiencing respiratory discomfort and other health issues.

Looking at the dire situation, health experts warn the current air quality is similar to smoking over 10 cigarettes a day, posing serious risks to short- and long-term health. Vulnerable groups, such as children, elderly and those with pre-existing conditions are at greater risk.

With toxic air causing a surge in respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses, preparedness extends beyond prevention. Health insurance has emerged as a crucial safety net, ensuring financial protection against the growing medical costs linked to pollution- related illnesses.

OPD coverage

Pollution rarely confines itself to hospital stays. It rather tends to hit in the form of eye irritations, skin allergies and breathing issues which often leads to more outpatient visits. For families, especially those with young children or senior citizens, these costs can accumulate quickly.

A single consultation in a metro city costs ₹1,000–1,500 and diagnostic tests can add another ₹5,000. Over time, these expenses can rival hospitalisation costs. OPD coverage, an often-overlooked feature in health insurance plans, can significantly lighten this financial burden, ensuring you don’t pay out-of-pocket for frequent visits to the doctor.

Pre-existing conditions

Pollution worsens chronic illnesses like asthma, bronchitis and cardiovascular diseases. For those managing these conditions, frequent medical intervention becomes inevitable.

Policies are now more inclusive, with shorter waiting periods for pre-existing conditions and even immediate coverage in some cases. This evolution in health insurance ensures those already dealing with respiratory or chronic ailments aren’t financially overwhelmed by pollution-triggered complications.

Case for high sum insured

Peak pollution seasons often bring unforeseen costs — from doctor visits to diagnostic tests and emergency hospitalisations. For families, a floater plan with a higher sum insured offers broad protection under one policy.

In cities like Delhi, where healthcare inflation is relentless, a policy with ₹10–25 lakh coverage per person — or a ₹1 crore umbrella for the family — has become prudent choice. In fact, insurers now offer riders that provide an unlimited sum insured for a single claim at a modest premium increase of 10–15%. Opting for a ₹10 lakh base plan with this rider ensures financial resilience in the face of escalating medical bills.

Critical illness cover

Pollution isn’t just seasonal nuisance; it is a long-term risk multiplier. Conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cardiac issues and even cancer are more and more linked to poor air quality. The cost of managing these diseases can climb to ₹40–50 lakh, a financial burden most households are unprepared to shoulder.

A critical illness cover bridges this gap by offering a lump sum payout on diagnosis. This flexibility allows the insured to use the funds not just for treatment but also for related costs, such as lifestyle adjustments or income loss, providing a vital buffer against life-altering illnesses.

Beyond prevention

No mask, purifier, or closed-door policy can entirely shield you from the health impacts of hazardous air. But financial preparedness, in the form of a well-chosen health insurance plan, can help mitigate its toll.

As AQI levels nosedive year after year, it’s time to move beyond temporary fixes and focus on a long-term strategy. Investing in health insurance is not just about handling medical expenses—it’s about securing peace of mind in a world where toxic air is becoming an uninvited constant.

(The writer is CBO, General Insurance, Policybazaar.com)