Do You Need a Special Insurance Policy For Black Fungus?

The second wave of COVID-19 saw the rise of a rare fungal infection called a black fungus. India reported record deaths as this infection spread. There has also been a rise in other infections, such as white and yellow fungus. Many state governments have declared black fungus infection as an epidemic disease. So, does this mean you will have to get black fungus insurance too?

The treatment cost of black fungus is expensive, making it difficult for patients to avail themselves of medical facilities. In such instances, health insurance comes to the rescue. Fortunately, comprehensive health insurance plans cover the expense of treating black fungus. If you think of taking an insurance policy for black fungus, read on to know which cover to opt for.

What is black fungus?

According to CDC, black fungus is a rare fungal infection caused by a group of molds known as mucormycetes. This fungus is present everywhere in the environment, from soil to air. It is said to affect people with existing health problems or those with low immunity. The symptoms are as follows.

• One-sided facial swelling
• Fever
• Nasal or sinus congestion
• Chest pain
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Doctors suspect the use of steroids for treating COVID-19 patients to cause the increase in the spread of this infection. The pitfall of consuming steroids is that it reduces immunity and increases blood sugar levels. Thus, this helps the fungi to enter the human body. Contamination of oxygen cylinders used to treat COVID-19 is also one of the causes of its rapid rise.

Do you need a special insurance policy for black fungus?

Comprehensive health policies cover fungal infections by default. So, you don’t have to buy a separate insurance policy for black fungus. Consider buying a high-value comprehensive plan as the cost of black fungus treatment can be expensive. Employer's group insurance also covers the treatment of this disease. However, COVID-19 specific health plans usually don’t cover black fungus.

Why is health insurance now more important than ever?

The number of people buying health insurance has grown drastically in India today. This is because of the rising number of diseases and high treatment costs. Insurance also comes in handy when you have medical emergencies. They reduce your financial burden at the cost of affordable premiums. In addition, the high treatment cost of black fungus is a good example in this case. It can go up to Rs.15 lakh in private hospitals in the country. So, having an insurance policy for black fungus can be vital for timely treatment.

How to get Black fungus medical insurance cover?

Opt for comprehensive health plans.

You need not worry if you have taken a comprehensive health plan as it covers the treatment of fungal infections. If not, buy a comprehensive health plan. Therefore, you won’t have to take a separate black fungus insurance policy.

Check the government’s medical insurance schemes.

Some state governments have introduced black fungus medical term insurance policy schemes. The Maharashtra government has announced a cover of up to Rs.1.5 lakh for the black fungus patients under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana. This scheme is also covered under the Mahatma Jyotirao Phule Jan Arogya Yojana. The Rajasthan government has also set a limit on treatment costs charged for black fungus at private hospitals under the Chiranjeevi Yojana Insurance Scheme.

Understand the terms and conditions of your insurer.

Inform your provider about any pre-existing health problems to get treatment as per their norms. Some plans have a 30-day waiting period to activate coverage. So, understand your plan carefully.

Additional Read: How to choose health insurance in times of coronavirus pandemic

How to raise a claim for the treatment of black fungus?

Claim insurance for the treatment of black fungus with a comprehensive health plan. To avail of the claim, inform your health insurer about your hospitalization status. Then, check for a cashless network hospital close to you. To speed up the settlement process, keep the required documents handy.

The unpredicted treatment cost of diseases like black fungus can deplete your savings. However, not availing of timely treatment can make the situation worse. So, it is wise to invest in an insurance policy for black fungus. Check out comprehensive and affordable health plans at Bajaj Finserv Health and opt for a high-value cover for yourself and your loved ones.