Health Insurance for Smokers: Are They Eligible?

Health insurance is a safety net, but for smokers, getting covered is not always a walk in the park.
This translates to higher premiums and, in some cases, policy restrictions.
Despite being exposed to tons of chronic health conditions and a weakened immune system, smokers hesitate to get a health policy.
The real question here lies - are smokers eligible for health insurance? If yes, how do insurers define smokers? What are the benefits of health insurance for smokers and what key factors to consider?
Are Smokers Eligible for a Health Policy?
Yes, smokers can apply for a health insurance plan. In fact, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has made it mandatory to give smokers the right to health insurance. The premiums might be higher, but it varies for different insurance companies.
How do Health Insurance Companies Describe Smokers?
A smoker is anyone who has the habit of consuming tobacco in any form be it cigarettes, cigars, vapes, bidis, or chewing tobacco within the past 12 months of applying for insurance.
Categories of Smokers
Why is Health Insurance for Smokers a Necessity?
Indians are the second-largest producers and consumers of tobacco. WHO reports that around 1.35 million deaths in India are caused by chronic diseases, and smoking has a major contribution to developing these illnesses, such as lung disease, stroke, and cardiovascular disease. Below are some reasons why smokers need a health insurance plan:
Benefits of Health Insurance for Smokers
While smokers pay higher premiums, the benefits far outweigh the costs. Here’s why getting covered is a smart move:
Financial Assistance for Medical Expenses
Smoking increases the risk of several health issues, and treatments do not come cheap. A health insurance plan for smokers helps cover hospital bills, doctor consultations, and medication costs, easing the financial burden.
Facilities for Cashless Hospitalisation
Many insurers offer cashless hospitalisation, which means you do not have to worry about arranging funds during a medical emergency. Your insurance provider directly settles the bill with the hospital if they have a tie-up, saving you stress and hassle.
Free Health Check-Ups
Regular health check-ups are crucial for detecting potential smoking-related complications early. Most health insurance policies for smokers offer free preventive check-ups, allowing you to keep track of your health without extra expenses.
Tax Advantages
Under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act, you can claim deductions on your premium payments, making it a win-win situation.
Explore our plans starting at just ₹129!
Do You Have to Disclose Your Smoking Habit to the Insurer?
Yes, you must disclose your smoking habit to the insurer when applying for a health insurance policy as a smoker. Most applications ask about tobacco use, and providing false or misleading information can result in claim rejection or policy cancellation. Insurers may also conduct medical tests to verify your smoking status, so you have to be honest in your declaration.
Why is it Important to Disclose Your Smoking Habits When Applying for Insurance?
Being upfront about your smoking habits when applying for insurance is crucial because it directly affects your coverage and premiums. Insurers classify smokers as higher-risk applicants due to the increased chances of health issues, which means your policy terms and costs will be different from those of a non-smoker.
What Happens if You Hide Your Smoking Habits When Buying a Health Plan?
Smokers with a health insurance policy should be very clear about their smoking habits with the insurer. If you hide it, you are taking a big risk, as the following troubles may follow:
Cost of Health Insurance Premium for Smokers vs. Non-Smokers
Smokers are at a higher risk of developing critical illnesses, which is why they typically pay 25% to 50% more compared to non-smokers, depending on the insurance company.
Why are Health Insurance Premiums for Smokers High?
Since smoking is linked to serious health issues, insurers see smokers as high-risk policyholders. To balance this risk, they charge higher premiums. Here’s a breakdown of why health insurance premiums are higher for smokers as compared to non-smokers:
How to Reduce Health Insurance Premiums as a Smoker
Health insurance plans for smokers come with higher premiums due to them being high-risk individuals for insurance companies. But the good news is that there are ways to reduce these costs. Here’s what you can do:
How to Choose the Best Health Insurance for Smokers
Choosing the best health insurance for smokers is all about ensuring you have the right coverage for your specific needs. Since smoking increases certain health risks, it is crucial to consider your medical history and potential future expenses before making a decision.
To help you find the best insurer and policy, here are some key factors to look for:
Beyond the policy features, check how well the insurer performs when it comes to settling claims. Two key indicators are:
Things to Know Before Getting Insured as a Smoker
To avoid surprises down the line, here is everything you need to consider to choose the best plan:
1
Full Disclosure
Always be honest about your smoking habits when applying for health insurance. If you hide it and the insurer finds out later (especially during a claim), your policy could be rejected or even cancelled.
2
Health Check-Ups
Many insurers require smokers to undergo medical tests before approving a policy. These check-ups help assess your current health status and determine the level of risk you pose.
3
Higher Premiums
Expect to pay more for coverage. Since smokers are at a higher risk of serious illnesses, insurance companies charge higher premiums to balance out the potential cost of claims.
4
Policy Terms
Carefully read the fine print of your policy. Some plans might have exclusions or waiting periods for smoking-related diseases, so it is essential to understand what is and is not covered.
5
Age
The older you are, the more expensive your premium will be, especially if you smoke. Buying a health insurance plan earlier in life can help lock in a relatively lower premium.
6
Complicated Claim Approvals
Smoking-related illnesses may lead to more complicated claim processes. Some insurers scrutinise claims for smokers more closely, making it essential to understand the terms before choosing a plan.
7
Premium Adjustments
Some insurers allow for premium reductions if you quit smoking and stay smoke-free for a certain period. If you plan to quit, ask your insurer about potential discounts.
Always check all the terms and conditions of the plans you compare to pick the best health insurance for smokers.
Explore our plans and get covered today! Get insured in just a few clicks and protect
every aspect of your life. Starting at just ₹129!