Summary of this article
West Asia tensions expose limits of travel insurance coverage
War, geopolitical disruptions usually excluded from standard policies
Flight delays, rerouting may not qualify for claims
Travellers urged to read exclusions, plan backups beyond insurance
Life insurance is an important part of one’s financial planning. However, while it is easy to get insurance if you are young and healthy, it might be difficult to get life insurance if you are a high-risk individual. High-risk individuals may include people with pre-existing diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and heart conditions; senior citizens; those with unhealthy lifestyles; and those in hazardous occupations. Even people with frequent hospitalizations and chronic conditions are considered high risk.
Life Insurance For High-Risk Individuals
High-risk applicants are getting better access to life insurance than before. However, the coverage comes with conditions like exclusions, waiting periods, or limited benefits in many cases. “So, while the access has improved and they do get coverage, the protection may not always be as comprehensive or beneficial as standard policies,” says Sarita Joshi, head of health & life insurance, Probus.
Higher premiums can significantly impact affordability and persistency, especially for individuals already facing financial or health-related stress. “If premiums are disproportionately high, there is a real risk of policy lapse over time, underinsurance (opting for a lower sum assured), and delayed purchase decisions. From a long-term protection standpoint, this creates a paradox: those who need insurance the most may remain inadequately protected,” says Narendra Bharindwal, president, Insurance Brokers Association of India (IBAI).
What To Do If You Are A High-Risk Individual
Buyers with health risks or hazardous jobs should carefully evaluate policy exclusions, waiting periods, premium costs, and claim conditions before choosing such policies. “In addition to this, it is also crucial to compare different insurers so as to ensure that the coverage offered is sufficient to meet their family’s medical needs,” says Joshi.
So buyers in high-risk categories should take a well-informed and advisory-led approach and carefully evaluate the extent of coverage vs exclusions (what is not covered is equally important); waiting periods and claim conditions; premium sustainability over the long term; disclosure requirements; full and honest disclosure (which is critical to avoid claim disputes); claim settlement track record of the insurer; and the availability of riders (critical illness, disability, and income protection).
“Most importantly, engaging with a qualified insurance advisor or broker can help navigate product complexity and ensure that the coverage aligns with actual protection needs rather than just policy issuance,” says Bharindwal.
