Do You Need To Notify Health Insurance When Someone Dies?

The Importance of Notifying Health Insurance Providers After a Death

When someone close to you dies, you often get busy in the last rite rituals. Making a claim on their health insurance policy is the last thing that comes to mind. However, utilizing the policy benefits can be really helpful in dealing with the medical expenses related to that person before their demise.  

So, is it necessary to notify health insurance providers when someone dies? And does informing quicker help you get insurance coverage faster? Here is a comprehensive guide to solve all your doubts regarding health insurance claims on the insured individual’s death.

Individual Health Insurance on Death

The benefits of health insurance upon the policyholder’s death depend on the type of plan. If the deceased individual was already covered by individual health insurance, the plan or policy will automatically get terminated on his death. In this case, the nominee (spouse or children) will be able to claim hospitalization expenses that led to the death. 

For example, a person dies due to a severe head injury. He was hospitalized for 5 days, after which he was declared dead. In this case, their nominees can claim the expenses incurred for the 5 days. 

Family Health Insurance

In case the insured had enrolled for family health insurance, the remaining family members will continue to receive coverage even after the holder’s demise. However, in this case, they must inform or report the death to the insurance provider, after which they will modify the policy to reflect the changes.

Group Health Insurance Plan

Such policies act like family health insurance, the only difference being the corporate setup. In other words, this policy covers a group of employees, with the employer as the primary member of the plan. 

Additionally, the beneficiaries do not benefit from the insured's death. However, if a death benefit clause exists, the beneficiaries can claim a specified amount as coverage.

Senior Citizen Health Insurance Plan

Just like individual health insurance plans, these policies expire after the policyholder’s death. Based on the policy terms, the nominees will receive coverage for the incurred treatment costs before the insured’s demise.  

Should You Rush to Your Health Insurance Provider After One Dies?

This question has no clear answer as the policy terms vary accordingly. If the death clause is explicitly mentioned in the policy, it is critical to inform the insurance holders as soon as possible. 

On the other hand, if there is no benefit clause or coverage in the insurance plan, the policy will automatically expire. Therefore, it is necessary to read all the terms and conditions of the policy. 

Also, the period of claim for coverage depends on the policy terms. In most cases, you must inform the insurer within 30 days of the policyholder’s death. The faster you inform the insurance provider, the smoother your claim process. 

When you opt for a medical insurance plan with reputed providers like Star Health, you get a 24/7 customer care helpline for claim intimations. This way, in case of the insured individual’s unfortunate demise, we ensure timely coverage of eligible expenses, ensuring zero hassles at your end. 

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