Concerns Raised in Rajya Sabha Over Delays in Health Insurance Claims
Health Insurance Claim Delays Highlighted
New Delhi, August 5 - During a session in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday, a BJP member expressed serious concerns regarding the challenges faced by customers of private health insurance policies in settling their claims. The member urged the government to take effective and timely action against companies that cause unnecessary delays in processing these claims. While raising the issue during zero hour, BJP's Kavita Patidar emphasized that the middle class and senior citizens invest their hard-earned money into private health insurance policies.
She noted that these individuals pay premiums for years, trusting that the insurance will provide financial security for their families in times of need. However, when health crises arise and claims are submitted, they encounter significant difficulties such as unnecessary delays, repeated requests for documentation, partial payments, or outright claim rejections without sufficient justification.
Patidar called on the government to mandate that health insurance policies clearly outline the covered illnesses and treatments in simple language. This should include information on waiting periods, conditions under which claims may be accepted or denied, the claims submission process, and the expected duration for claim settlements.
She further urged the government to strengthen the accountability of insurance companies to ensure that the claims settlement process is transparent, digital, and timely. If there are unnecessary delays in claims processing, effective and timely action against the insurance companies should be guaranteed.
During the same session, BJP's Medha Vishram Kulkarni raised concerns about the varying prices of the same medication, advocating for measures to curb profiteering from patients through overpriced drugs. She mentioned that a recent parliamentary committee had also expressed worries regarding this issue and suggested the establishment of a 'reference price range' for medications.
BJP's Sangeeta Balwant highlighted the successful launch of the Vikram-1 orbital rocket by the private company Skyroot from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota on July 18, 2026. She pointed out that this was the first successful launch by a private company from this space center, showcasing India's scientific achievements and innovations. Balwant stated that this accomplishment marks India as the third country, after the United States and China, to achieve such a milestone.
Additionally, V. Shivadasan from the Marxist Communist Party raised concerns about the increasing trend of abruptly terminating contract employees' services during the zero hour.