80% of persons with disabilities lack health insurance: NCPEDP survey

80% of persons with disabilities lack health insurance: NCPEDP survey

## Health Insurance Coverage Lags for Persons with Disabilities, Survey Reveals Systemic Barriers

**New Delhi:** A significant disparity in healthcare access persists for persons with disabilities (PwDs) across India, with a recent nationwide survey exposing alarmingly low rates of health insurance coverage and highlighting systemic barriers hindering their inclusion. The findings point to substantial rejection rates, regulatory loopholes within the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) framework, and inadequate integration of PwDs into flagship government schemes like Ayushman Bharat.

The survey, encompassing a broad demographic of individuals with various disabilities across the country, reveals that a staggering 80% lack any form of health insurance. This stark figure underscores the vulnerability of this population, who often face higher healthcare costs and increased susceptibility to chronic conditions. The lack of insurance coverage can lead to delayed or foregone treatment, exacerbating existing health issues and further marginalizing individuals with disabilities.

One of the most concerning findings is the high rate of insurance application rejections faced by PwDs. The survey suggests that insurance companies frequently deny coverage based on pre-existing conditions related to their disability, effectively penalizing individuals for their health status. This practice, while potentially rooted in risk assessment models, raises serious ethical concerns about discrimination and accessibility.

Furthermore, the survey sheds light on gaps within the IRDAI’s regulatory framework. While IRDAI guidelines aim to promote inclusive insurance practices, the survey suggests that these guidelines are not effectively translated into tangible benefits for PwDs. Ambiguous language and a lack of robust enforcement mechanisms allow insurance companies to circumvent the spirit of the regulations, leaving PwDs vulnerable to discriminatory practices.

The integration of PwDs into the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), the government’s flagship health insurance scheme, also appears to be falling short. The survey indicates that many PwDs are either unaware of the scheme or face significant challenges in enrolling due to bureaucratic hurdles, lack of accessible information, or eligibility criteria that inadvertently exclude them. This exclusion undermines the scheme’s objective of providing universal health coverage and perpetuates the marginalization of PwDs.

The implications of these findings are far-reaching. The lack of health insurance not only impacts the health and well-being of PwDs but also places a significant burden on families and caregivers. It also has broader economic consequences, as untreated health conditions can lead to reduced productivity and increased reliance on social welfare programs.

Addressing this critical issue requires a multi-pronged approach. Firstly, a thorough review of IRDAI guidelines is necessary to ensure they are clear, comprehensive, and effectively enforced. This includes establishing stringent penalties for discriminatory practices and promoting greater transparency in insurance application processes. Secondly, targeted awareness campaigns are needed to educate PwDs about their rights and the available insurance options. Thirdly, the AB-PMJAY needs to be redesigned to be more inclusive and accessible to PwDs, with simplified enrollment procedures and targeted outreach programs.

Ultimately, ensuring equitable access to health insurance for persons with disabilities is not just a matter of social justice; it is a fundamental human right. By addressing the systemic barriers identified in this survey, policymakers and insurance providers can pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system that prioritizes the health and well-being of all citizens, regardless of their disability status. Only through concerted effort and a commitment to inclusivity can India truly ensure that no one is left behind in the pursuit of health and well-being.

This article was created based on information from various sources and rewritten for clarity and originality.