Care Health Insurance: medical emergencies don’t come with a warning. And with hospital bills often hitting six figures, even a minor surgery can set you back financially. That’s where health insurance steps in — not just as a backup plan, but a lifeline.
Among the many options in the market today, Care Health Insurance stands out as one of the most consumer-friendly, benefit-loaded, and customizable plans in India. Whether you’re a salaried professional, a small business owner, or a senior citizen, Care has something designed for you.
But what makes it truly worth considering? Let’s break it down.
What Is Care Health Insurance?
Care Health Insurance (formerly known as Religare Health Insurance) is an IRDAI-approved standalone health insurer in India. The company offers a wide variety of plans, covering everything from basic hospitalization to international treatments and wellness benefits.
Founded in 2012, Care Health has quickly gained trust among policyholders for its transparent processes, wide network of hospitals, and quick claim settlements.
Why Choose Care Health Insurance?
Here are seven compelling reasons why Care Health Insurance deserves a spot on your shortlist:
1. Wide Range of Plans
From individual health covers to family floater plans, maternity insurance, and even global health policies, Care caters to every life stage.
Example: Ritu, a 32-year-old software engineer, opted for the Care Supreme plan for her family. When her father required bypass surgery, their plan covered over 95% of the expenses through a cashless claim.
2. Cashless Treatment at Over 23,000 Hospitals
You read that right. Care Health Insurance has one of the largest cashless hospital networks in India.
Whether you’re in a metro city or a Tier-2 town, chances are, there’s a Care network hospital nearby — ensuring smooth hospitalization without out-of-pocket burden.
3. No Claim Bonus up to 150%
If you don’t make a claim in a policy year, Care rewards you. The No Claim Bonus (NCB) increases your sum insured by up to 150%, depending on the plan you choose.
This means you get more coverage for the same premium, just by staying healthy.
4. Pre and Post-Hospitalization Coverage
Care doesn’t just cover hospitalization. It includes 60 to 90 days of pre-hospitalization and up to 180 days post-hospitalization expenses — like doctor visits, tests, and medications.
5. Modern and Day-Care Treatments Covered
With medical tech evolving, many surgeries no longer require overnight stays. Care Health covers over 500+ day-care procedures, including cataract, chemotherapy, and tonsillectomy.
6. Annual Health Check-ups & Wellness Rewards
Policyholders receive free annual health check-ups, and some plans offer wellness rewards for completing fitness activities or maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
7. High Claim Settlement Ratio
As per IRDAI reports, Care has maintained a solid claim settlement ratio above 95%, which indicates reliability and faster reimbursements.
Popular Care Health Insurance Plans (2025)
Here’s a quick look at some of the top-performing policies:
| Plan Name | Ideal For | Sum Insured | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Care Supreme | Families, Individuals | ₹5L–₹1 Cr | No sub-limits, wellness benefits, unlimited recharge |
| Care Advantage | Young professionals | ₹25L–₹1 Cr | High sum insured, low premium |
| Care Joy | Maternity needs | ₹3L–₹6L | Maternity + newborn coverage |
| Care Freedom | Diabetics & seniors | ₹3L–₹10L | No medical tests for pre-existing diseases |
| Care Senior | 60+ Age Group | ₹3L–₹10L | Tailored for elderly with quick claims |
Real-Life Story: How Care Health Saved a Life
Arjun, a 29-year-old marketing executive, had recently married and bought the Care Advantage Plan for ₹10,000 annually. Just six months later, his wife developed appendicitis.
Thanks to cashless hospitalization at a Care partner hospital, the entire ₹87,000 bill was settled directly. No stress. No paperwork. Arjun called it, “The best decision I ever made.”
What Does Care Health Insurance Cover?
Here’s what you typically get (coverage may vary by plan):
✅ Inclusions
- In-patient hospitalization
- ICU charges
- Room rent (private/single depending on plan)
- Pre & post hospitalization
- Day care procedures
- Ambulance charges
- AYUSH treatments (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, etc.)
- Maternity and newborn care (in select plans)
- Annual health check-ups
- Domiciliary treatment
- Organ donor expenses
- Recharge/refill benefits (restoration of sum insured)
❌ Exclusions
- Cosmetic surgeries (unless medically necessary)
- Dental and hearing aids
- OPD consultation unless specified
- Injuries due to intoxication or self-harm
- Pre-existing diseases (covered after 2–4 years depending on plan)
How to Choose the Right Care Health Plan for You?
Here’s a step-by-step checklist to help:
- Assess Your Needs
Are you buying for yourself, your parents, or the entire family? Do you have lifestyle conditions (like diabetes or hypertension)? - Compare Plans Online
Use the official Care Health website or comparison platforms to see side-by-side features. - Pick Adequate Sum Insured
With rising medical inflation, consider at least ₹10–25 lakh for families. - Check Sub-Limits & Co-Pay Clauses
Some plans may limit room rent or have co-pay clauses for older members. - Look at Waiting Periods
Pre-existing diseases may be covered after 2–4 years. Choose accordingly. - Check Network Hospitals
Always ensure that your nearest preferred hospital is in the Care cashless network.
Claims Process: Easier Than You Think
✅ Cashless Claim Steps:
- Show your e-health card at the hospital desk.
- The hospital contacts Care Health for pre-authorization.
- Get treated without paying (unless deductibles apply).
- Discharge and go home, no paperwork.
✅ Reimbursement Claim:
- Inform Care Health within 24 hours of admission.
- Submit bills, reports, and claim forms.
- Amount is credited to your bank post-approval.
Most claims are settled within 7–10 working days.
FAQs About Care Health Insurance
Can I buy Care Health Insurance online?
Yes, you can easily purchase it through their official website or licensed platforms like Policybazaar, Coverfox, and more.
What is the entry age for Care policies?
Most plans cover individuals from 91 days to lifetime, with some specialized plans for senior citizens.
Are pre-existing diseases covered?
Yes, but usually after a waiting period of 2 to 4 years, depending on the plan.
Can I increase my sum insured later?
Yes, you can opt for top-up plans or port to a higher sum insured plan at the time of renewal.
Is there a tax benefit?
Absolutely. Premiums paid qualify for tax deductions under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act — up to ₹25,000–₹100,000 depending on your age and family.
Expert Opinion: Should You Go for Care Health Insurance?
We asked Dr. Sameer Joshi, a healthcare consultant based in Mumbai:
“Care Health Insurance has done well in making policies more user-centric. Their cashless network, digital claim tracking, and flexibility in plan customization make them a strong contender — especially for young professionals and families.”
Final Verdict: Is Care Health Insurance Worth It in 2025?
If you’re looking for a flexible, well-priced, and reliable health plan, Care Health Insurance checks all the right boxes. With its high claim settlement ratio, digital-first services, and expanding hospital network, it’s a solid choice in today’s unpredictable health climate.
From wellness benefits to serious emergency cover, it’s not just a policy — it’s peace of mind.
