Presently persons affected by HIV/AIDS are denied any insurance coverage and at times even withdraw existing policies. A PIL was filed against this practice of insurance company. At present, only one company out of the 24 insurance companies listed with IRDA provides health insurance cover to AIDS patients.
After receiving notice from Delhi High Court on such discriminatory practice, IRDA has now directed all the insurance companies to provide coverage to HIV+ patients to be covered for all ailments other than HIV+.
The Union Health Ministry has also backed IRDA’s proposal and stated that the insurance companies are bound to react positively. It now needs to be seen that how effectively the insurance companies come up with solutions.
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Socio Research & Reform Foundation
(A Non Government Organisation)
512 A, Deepshikha, 8 Rajendra Place, New Delhi – 110008
Tele/Fax: +91-11-25821088, 25817157, 25722044
e-mail: socio-research@sma.net.in
PSI – Population Services International in partnership with Star Health offers special low-cost insurance scheme for HIV/AIDS patients. Pl contact abhilash@psi.org.in for further details on this insurance.
Surya Prakash Loonker