Medical Insurance for Parents

[Openarms]

Where can I find medical insurance for my parents with reasonable coverage with reasonable premium. Their age is between 55 to 60. Obviously they are with some medical conditions like blood pressure, diabetic... like usual stuff like typical parents would have...Can somebody suggest good one... thanks in advance.

[coolest_me]

Hi,

I got the Insurance for my mother-in law from Patriot America . for 3 month it costs 360$ (250 deductible, 50K max). One thing that I came to know was that Patriot America and Protection America both are the same insurance from same underwriter. Only difference is that you cannot renew Patriot America if you purchase it for less than 3 months.
If your parents will be here for at least 3 month then look at this option. Protection America costs > 400 for 3 months.

I know they have a good network but nothing much about how good they are in processing claims

[coolest_me]

One more thing, I couldn't find any visitor insurance comp that covers the Pre Existing condition for visitors.

[dollar500]

I have done a lot of research on this topic and ended up in taking Tata-AIG. Few tips I can tell:

1. Try a high deductible: It brings down your rate significantly down. The way I saw it is, hopefully nothing will happen to my parents and for small things I have friends who can help them out. If there is something big I can afford a part of it and let insurance take care of rest.

2. have a few extra days than what your parents are coming for: say they are coming for 90 days get one for at least 120 days. Also make sure you get policies which are renewable.

3. Check on the insurance website if it covers hospitals in your area. I looked in one insurance where nearest hospital was 35 miles away from my home.

4. Look for ICU and surgical coverage closely as these two coverages are the most expensive and insurances tend to not cover it.

Hope these helps. Good luck with your parents visit. Let me know if you have questions :)

[hasil]

My father always take ICICI lombard insurance when he plans his trip to visit us. The key advantage is that you can get your premium back if you come back early. I hope that helps. :)

http://www.icicilombard.com/app/ilom-en/

[obviously]

Indian insurance companies that process through "Corus" in France are all SHAM policies. In the event of any claim, they try to wiggle out stating there was some preexisting condition.

While it is understandable that no insurance will cover preexisting conditions, New India Assurance and other jokers that process through Corus are out there to lie, cheat and steal.

Stay away from those sharks and get a US based insurance, if you can.

Peace!

[hfisa]

I am also shopping for my parent's insurance coming to US next month. I found the coverage by TATA AIG better than ICICI. The HMO plans for Kaiser is also good but expensive. United Health care does not provide insurance if the applicant doesn't have SSN.

[pavish]

Please remember that ICICI gives LIMITED coverage for anyone above the age of 56. It is mentioned in the "fine print". They have a restriction of say $1200 per day of hospitalization (not sure of the exact amount- but somewhere in that region).

The same is true for TATA Travelguard

It sounds like Comprehensive Insurance from a US company might provide the best "insurance"

[gccovet]

Where can I find medical insurance for my parents with reasonable coverage with reasonable premium. Their age is between 55 to 60. Obviously they are with some medical conditions like blood pressure, diabetic... like usual stuff like typical parents would have...Can somebody suggest good one... thanks in advance.

I have used India Network Health Plan since 2002 till date for my parents, they stay 6 months in India and 6 months in US.

India Network Health Plan specially designed for Visiting parents, temporary workers and their families. Visit http://health.indnet.org for more info, premiums and plan details.

Dr. K.V.Rao president has expanded this service extensively. I did not have any problems in getting good medical service and claims.

HTH
GCCovet

[maverick_joe]

does kaiser provide insurance for visitors?

I am also shopping for my parent's insurance coming to US next month. I found the coverage by TATA AIG better than ICICI. The HMO plans for Kaiser is also good but expensive. United Health care does not provide insurance if the applicant doesn't have SSN.

[add78]

ICICI Lombard or Tata AIG for Indian Parents.
Look up the plans and read fine prints.

[bluekayal]

Could anyone recommend medical insurance for parents over 80?

[hebbar77]

How about a IV visitor health/medical insurance?
Because of the numbers premium will be damn cheap I am sure!

[FinalGC]

Recently, one of my friend's dad came to Texas and got sick and the bill came to $60K. Unfortunatley, he did not buy travelers insurance and is fighting an uphill battle with the hospital.

My parents are coming next month, so I did a detailed research on all the insurance firms, both in India and in USA and I found that most of the ICICI or Tata-AIG plans have limited coverage, which limits the number of days in an ICU or visits by doctors etc.. Even if the plan has a $100K max, the plan may only cover upto $1000 per day for 30 days or so and then there is limitation for ICU and other surgeries. However, if you take a comprehensive coverage, then whatever the expenses, or wherever the charges are incurred, it does not matter. The total amount upto $100K will be covered and it does not limit ICU charges or room charges or doctor visits etc.

The only reason we need an insurance for parents is to cover emergencies, rather than regular doctor visits. Generally, any emergency run 60-70K, so I would recommend a minimum of $100K and do a comprehensive coverage. I have worked with IMG or check this guy at http://www.visitorshealthinsurance.com/
I even called IMG to ensure that this guy is an authorized re-seller/broker for the insurance.

Additionally, I did not find any insurance that covers pre-existing conditions. So just pray that they are healthy during their stay in US.

Yes, it is little expensive, but better peace of mind with comprehensive. If you do a local US insurance, then it is easy to get the insurance paper work done, when needed, rather than doing an Indian based insurance, which may need additional paper work and money transfer may get delayed.

[smitin_2000]

Please remember that ICICI gives LIMITED coverage for anyone above the age of 56. It is mentioned in the "fine print". They have a restriction of say $1200 per day of hospitalization (not sure of the exact amount- but somewhere in that region).

The same is true for TATA Travelguard

It sounds like Comprehensive Insurance from a US company might provide the best "insurance"

Don't ever go with ICICI Lombard, they are jerks and cheaters, I took it for my mother and they have not educated her properly while taking insurance from them, when it comes to claim, they have given penny, saying they have applied sublimits in her claim, and they took too much time to pass a claim of a chunk, I really hate this company, don't go with them,
try IMG Global http://www.aaamidatlantic.com/insurance/img_main.asp

[nc14]

FinalGC,

You have summed it up correctly. Comprehensive insurance from a reputed US company/broker like AIG (not TATA-AIG) is the way to go. I had the same for my parents. Luckily, there was no need for us to use it but I know friends who have used it and were not left in soup (it worked as well as it was supposed to work).




Recently, one of my friend's dad came to Texas and got sick and the bill came to $60K. Unfortunatley, he did not buy travelers insurance and is fighting an uphill battle with the hospital.

My parents are coming next month, so I did a detailed research on all the insurance firms, both in India and in USA and I found that most of the ICICI or Tata-AIG plans have limited coverage, which limits the number of days in an ICU or visits by doctors etc.. Even if the plan has a $100K max, the plan may only cover upto $1000 per day for 30 days or so and then there is limitation for ICU and other surgeries. However, if you take a comprehensive coverage, then whatever the expenses, or wherever the charges are incurred, it does not matter. The total amount upto $100K will be covered and it does not limit ICU charges or room charges or doctor visits etc.

The only reason we need an insurance for parents is to cover emergencies, rather than regular doctor visits. Generally, any emergency run 60-70K, so I would recommend a minimum of $100K and do a comprehensive coverage. I have worked with IMG or check this guy at http://www.visitorshealthinsurance.com/
I even called IMG to ensure that this guy is an authorized re-seller/broker for the insurance.

Additionally, I did not find any insurance that covers pre-existing conditions. So just pray that they are healthy during their stay in US.

Yes, it is little expensive, but better peace of mind with comprehensive. If you do a local US insurance, then it is easy to get the insurance paper work done, when needed, rather than doing an Indian based insurance, which may need additional paper work and money transfer may get delayed.

[gc_maine2]

Very well summarized, recently I took the visitor insurance for my mother-in-law from Kvrao.org. Before taking the insurance I called them and asked in details about pre-existing conditions and how it works. He told me in very simple words that for people who are aged above 45 plus they consider everything as pre-existing (he says its all because of age factor), any visitor insurance is only good if there is any accident (slipping from staircase, car accident...). so in a nutshell he said they will consider everything as pre-existing for aged people. I argued with him how come if they never have any History of BP and after coming here , if they have BP and sugar, then what? he says it just does not come suddenly, so its pre-existing.. I don't have the answer for him. After researching some more insurance companies, I took from them.

FinalGC,

You have summed it up correctly. Comprehensive insurance from a reputed US company/broker like AIG (not TATA-AIG) is the way to go. I had the same for my parents. Luckily, there was no need for us to use it but I know friends who have used it and were not left in soup (it worked as well as it was supposed to work).

Recently, one of my friend's dad came to Texas and got sick and the bill came to $60K. Unfortunatley, he did not buy travelers insurance and is fighting an uphill battle with the hospital.

My parents are coming next month, so I did a detailed research on all the insurance firms, both in India and in USA and I found that most of the ICICI or Tata-AIG plans have limited coverage, which limits the number of days in an ICU or visits by doctors etc.. Even if the plan has a $100K max, the plan may only cover upto $1000 per day for 30 days or so and then there is limitation for ICU and other surgeries. However, if you take a comprehensive coverage, then whatever the expenses, or wherever the charges are incurred, it does not matter. The total amount upto $100K will be covered and it does not limit ICU charges or room charges or doctor visits etc.

The only reason we need an insurance for parents is to cover emergencies, rather than regular doctor visits. Generally, any emergency run 60-70K, so I would recommend a minimum of $100K and do a comprehensive coverage. I have worked with IMG or check this guy at http://www.visitorshealthinsurance.com/
I even called IMG to ensure that this guy is an authorized re-seller/broker for the insurance.

Additionally, I did not find any insurance that covers pre-existing conditions. So just pray that they are healthy during their stay in US.

Yes, it is little expensive, but better peace of mind with comprehensive. If you do a local US insurance, then it is easy to get the insurance paper work done, when needed, rather than doing an Indian based insurance, which may need additional paper work and money transfer may get delayed.

[docwa]

Hi I am a physician in Oregon and my parents are visiting too in July. I called Kaiser regarding this, and this is what I was told.
1. they can get insurance since Kaiser does not need an SSN for the application.
2. Every Plan has a deductible $, an out of pocket maximum $, and a co-insurance $ amount.

So,
Plan A: Deductible 2500, Co-insurance 22% of all inpatient cost upto max of $22,000.
Plan B: Deductible 6000, Co-insurance 50% of all inpatient cost upto max of $50,000.
Essentially none of these plans are a 'good deal'. But remember its easier to pay back a loan of 22k - 50k than to pay back 100-200k.
Also since Kaiser is an HMO, and has its own facilities in the west coast and Hawaii, 'accepting insurance' is not a problem.

[iwantmygreen]

My parents visited last year. My dad had to undergo some treatments. ICICI never paid a dime. They kept me waiting for almost 9 months. Then finally decided it was a pre existing condition which isnt the case. I was just sick of calling these guys & finally decided to give up.

[guesswho]

Did you consider using "atlas america" and other bunch of travel insurance that advertise themselves as PPO? I am wondering if anyone has expericence dealing with them regarding claims. I purchased that recently for my parents since it had 100/0 or 90/10 coverage.

Anyone has experience going to hospital using these insurance?

Hi I am a physician in Oregon and my parents are visiting too in July. I called Kaiser regarding this, and this is what I was told.
1. they can get insurance since Kaiser does not need an SSN for the application.
2. Every Plan has a deductible $, an out of pocket maximum $, and a co-insurance $ amount.

So,
Plan A: Deductible 2500, Co-insurance 22% of all inpatient cost upto max of $22,000.
Plan B: Deductible 6000, Co-insurance 50% of all inpatient cost upto max of $50,000.
Essentially none of these plans are a 'good deal'. But remember its easier to pay back a loan of 22k - 50k than to pay back 100-200k.
Also since Kaiser is an HMO, and has its own facilities in the west coast and Hawaii, 'accepting insurance' is not a problem.

[pv2715]

Docwa?

Do you know if they cover pre-existing conditions?

[greenguru]

India Network Foundation
3956 Town Center Blvd #340
Orlando, FL 32837
Fax: 800-837-6384
Web: http://www.indianetwork.org

Advantages :

1.working with AIG, insurance carrier for many years on offering pre-existing conditions coverage

Hope this helps, call them out as well.

[Aah_GC]

Could anyone recommend medical insurance for parents over 80?

Unfortunately you are in with little luck for parents over 80. In most American Travel insurance quotes you will see that for 70+ the maximum coverage is $100K and then for 80+ it is just $15K. This is total sham - the purpose of all insurance companies is just this - make the most money by insuring themselves against risk, even at the cost of insurer.

My suggestion to all of you would be to go for comprehensive coverage with a good network. I found http://www.nriol.com/insurance/insurance-worldmed-long-term.asp this site to be useful - don't mean to advertise.

[gccovet]

India network is a fixed coverage plan for all ages. It only provides the coverage for the small fraction of actual expenses in most cases. It is better to consider comprehensive coverage plans like 'Atlas America'.

I recently read that the customer's expenses were $25,000 but AIG (India Network plan) only paid $1,750.

I used this for quite some time. it is the best.
-GCCOvet

[Openarms]

Did anybody used IMG Global Medical Insurance for parents? How is their service about availability of providers and claim processing.
They are suggesting that people above 60 years old multiple deductible plans. For $2500 deductible and $100,000 max premium is $1300.00 for 6 months.
I am planning to take.
http://www.imglobal.com

[shirish]

As per my research, this restiriction is there for almost every one (Atleast the one i checked). BUt added advantage with ICICI ot tata AIG, of bajaj allianze is that medical emergency even if it is out of pre-existing conditions are covered. where as the insurance companies in the US do not cover them.

I used ICICI for my parents. My dad had to use the insurance unfortunately. Due to his age (60 yrs) they paid only part of the expense, but i did not have to pay from my pocket except the prescription medicins.


In another case, one of my friend had purchased insurance for his mother here in US, she was diabetic, and unfortunately her kidneys failed when she was in US. Insurance company did not pay anything, as it was due to pre-existing condition.

There are advantages and disadvantages with both. You need to choose based on your condition.

Hope this helps.

Please remember that ICICI gives LIMITED coverage for anyone above the age of 56. It is mentioned in the "fine print". They have a restriction of say $1200 per day of hospitalization (not sure of the exact amount- but somewhere in that region).

The same is true for TATA Travelguard

It sounds like Comprehensive Insurance from a US company might provide the best "insurance"

[immiusa]

Try from american company. One of my friend had problems with claims when bought insurance from K.V Rao.

Any insurance is fine if you are not claiming. The real trouble comes, when you need to use the insurance & claim money back.

No insurance covers pre-existing condition

[Openarms]

I have talked to IMG sales rep, he said they won't cover for pre existing conditions. He also said that as far as his knowledge is concerned there is no company out there that covers pre existing conditions when I asked him about it.

My final assumption is that any insurance we buy anywhere, just covers illnesses that are developed after the coverage starts.

Any corrections??

[panky72]

I have talked to IMG sales rep, he said they won't cover for pre existing conditions. He also said that as far as his knowledge is concerned there is no company out there that covers pre existing conditions when I asked him about it.

My final assumption is that any insurance we buy anywhere, just covers illnesses that are developed after the coverage starts.

Any corrections??

India health network policy underwritten by AIG covers preexisting conditions for $20K for extra premium. It covers only acute exacerbations of preexisting conditions.

[panky72]

What does 'acute exacerbations of preexisting conditions' mean?

Are there any examples of the cases of that were covered in past? Did anyone have any first hand experience with that?

Given someone's situation, can they give in writing that they will definitely cover anything related to that situation?

Those are the questions that come to my mind.

Like if somebody has high blood pressure but suddenly the blood pressure goes very high and they have to go to ER.

[gcbikari]

Where can I find medical insurance for my parents with reasonable coverage with reasonable premium. Their age is between 55 to 60. Obviously they are with some medical conditions like blood pressure, diabetic... like usual stuff like typical parents would have...Can somebody suggest good one... thanks in advance.

I have used AIG for my in-laws visit and didn't had to use it. Why can't we add them to our insurance as dependants? Did anyone tried this?

[panky72]

I am not referring to the hypothetical scenarios and assumptions.

I am talking about the real scenarios in past that were covered. Did you have the first hand experience of it being covered?

I have bought it twice for my parents but did not use it (thank god). Yes that's a hypothetical scenario but I went through the policy fine print. At least it offers to cover some part of preexisting conditions which other plans do not.

[eb3retro]

bought AIG insurance..twice, my dad had severe hand pain and could not take him to a doctor, cos, the docs wont accept visitors medical insurance without a cash deposit. then i tried to get pre-certification from AIG, for which they would not give it, so its a catch 22...so screw it, even if ur parents fall sick, all of a sudden when they are in the US, take them to the emergency, there is no system in place for medical insurance for visitors, every other insurance is a scam..so dont even have any hopes..just do what u need to do..there are lots of times, this country does not allow us to live more than 6 years being on h1 without a freakin green card, we have paid lots and lots of taxes which we will never claim..so, this is how they repay.

[gg10004]

IMG is very good but they dont cover pre existing conditionsl.

[panky72]

You probably didn't get my point.

I am trying to distinguish between 'offering to cover' vs 'actually have covered'. There could be a lot of difference.

I get your point. I have not used it so far. I figured if need arises and the insurance company refuses to pay then there are legal avenues to claim money from them.

[pthoko]

IMG is very good but they dont cover pre existing conditionsl.

Hi,
What do you mean by IMG is very good?? Could you please elaborate??

Thanks

[shirish]

As per my research and talking to customer service of few american and india insurance companies, You are partly right that no one covers pre-existing conditions.

But indian companies like Icici lombard, Bajaj allianz, tata aig etc cover emergency life saving treatment even if it was due to the pre-existing conditions. Which means if one is diabetic, reguler sugar check and doc vists will not be covered but if say patients develops a critical condition (e.g kideny failure etc) then the treatment is covered.

But american companies do not cover even the emergency treatment.

Hope this helps
I have talked to IMG sales rep, he said they won't cover for pre existing conditions. He also said that as far as his knowledge is concerned there is no company out there that covers pre existing conditions when I asked him about it.

My final assumption is that any insurance we buy anywhere, just covers illnesses that are developed after the coverage starts.

Any corrections??

[nb_des]

As per my research and talking to customer service of few american and india insurance companies, You are partly right that no one covers pre-existing conditions.

But indian companies like Icici lombard, Bajaj allianz, tata aig etc cover emergency life saving treatment even if it was due to the pre-existing conditions. Which means if one is diabetic, reguler sugar check and doc vists will not be covered but if say patients develops a critical condition (e.g kideny failure etc) then the treatment is covered.

But american companies do not cover even the emergency treatment.

Hope this helps

Is there website to buy insurance from Indian companies? Do they cover emergency treatment for 70+ years old? I have heard it is very difficult to have claim processed through them. Do you have any personal experience?

[shirish]

My dad, had to use the insurane, unfortunately. All the hospitals, docs offices billed the insurance company directly. I had to pay only for the prescription medicine after he was discharged, as pharmacies bill online, and they do not have online setup with indian companies's adjusters here.

Icici lombard paid as per the coverage, it took a while, but was was mostly due to my dad's doctor back in india took long time to respond to their questions. I am not sure on the 70+ factor, as my dad was 61 that time.

Hope this helps.
Is there website to buy insurance from Indian companies? Do they cover emergency treatment for 70+ years old? I have heard it is very difficult to have claim processed through them. Do you have any personal experience?

[nb_des]

Based on the responses I got (or lack of), and based on my research and calling around in last few days, I have come to following conclusions:

* Buy only from US based company
* Buy only comprehensive coverage plan, not fixed
* Buy only from a reputed and licensed broker who has been in business for some time, who is willing to help even after the sale.
* No body covers pre-existing conditions. Here and there, somebody is claiming to cover them in some cases up to some extent, but there is really no evidence or consistent past record of they having actually covered, at least I can't find any. Therefore, don't believe or expect that anyone would cover them, unless you are shown the proof and convinced otherwise.

Above may not always be true or suitable for everyone, but that seems to be the general idea.

I read this everywhere about buying from US based company but after going through the plans I don't really see any benefit. I think none of visitor plans are of much help.

You can go for comprehensive plan and they will list some PPO network, but you cannot use that network for any illness other than likes of flu and diarrhea. Initially I was unders the impression that having PPO network would atleast help in getting negotiated rates for emergency treatment but after talking to them furthur, I found out that they won't provide negotiated rates for pre existing conditions. There is a comprehensive plan from Liason which provides small amount for pre existing but that is flat amount and they will not negotiate rates as it is not covered illness. Most emergencies ( stroke, seizure etc.) are always regarded as pre existing.

As for ICICI lombard, I have not used them but they list that emergency situations will be covered. I understand it will be big hastle to get any money out of them but these US based companies won;t even consider these situations.

[nb_des]

Did you have a personal experience about pre-existing conditions getting covered? Or do you personally know anyone who got covered for pre-existing conditions? If so, please provide complete details. How much was the total expense? How much did they cover? Was there network negotiated charge? How much time did it talk to get the money back?

If not, there is no point in talking about hypothetical scenarios and hoping that someone would cover.

Absolutely not. The first time I thought about it was after reading post from Shirish in this thread who used it. I was personally never in favor of using Indian company and last couple of times I purchased from IMG(US based) but never used them.

This time again I am hunting for medical insurance for my parents and from based on my initial research I don;t find much benefit in using US based company either. If you know someone who have good experience with US based company in emergency situations then please post it.

[Openarms]

sunilbhai, which insurance you bought?

I had been researching this entire week. Well, I haven't found any company so far from anywhere that has actually covered pre-existing conditions for visitors to United States.

Therefore, I believe that visitors insurance would help in case of any new medical conditions, or injuries that were to occur after buying the policy. Insurance is really not for pre-existing conditions. (Someone gave me a couple of examples, would you really get house insurance after the house is on fire? Or car insurance after you had a car crash?) I think that regarding pre-existing conditions, we are on our own. I think that we need to take that risk ourselves if we want to invite someone with pre-existing conditions as no one else will take away our headache so that we can safely invite our parents. Being from Bania community, I know for sure that no company will do business in loss by really covering pre-existing conditions, even if emergency.

For now, I have purchased comprehensive coverage from US based company and I hope for the best.

[casinoroyale]

sunilbhai, thanks for the information.

I have gone thru this whole thread and here is list of all distinct insurance plans that were brought up. It seems like
(A) IMGGlobal is popular
(B) ATLAS America seems to provide little hope for people looking for pre-existing condition coverage.

List:

1) Kaiser
2) AIG
3) Tata-AIG
4) IMG Global
5) kvrao
7) ICICI-Lombard
8) http://health.indnet.org/ (India Network - Underwritten by AIG)
9) http://www.nriol.com/insurance/insurance-worldmed-long-term.asp
10) Atlas America

[gcseeker2002]

Looks like the insurance rates are much higher even if one person's age just touches 70 , this is with patriot and protection america.

[NKR]

If the visitor develops some symptom, it could be because of some condition that originated in his/her country and the symptoms showed up now. Note that in this case the insurance will treat it as a pre-existing condition and the claims will be denied.

Remember that insurance companies make the determination only after a claim is made and not before the visitor is taken to a doctor. So please be aware of all scenarios before buying an insurance.

My suggestion is to get a medical checkup done in the home country for any hidden condition, get it treated if you are buying just an emergency insurance or declare the condition and buy an insurance that covers pre-existing case. Be aware that depending on the condition the premium could be high or if the condition requires treatment the insurance could be denied..

[casinoroyale]

sunilbhai,

What is the difference between Patriot America & Protection America other than 90/10, 80/20 option. From the comparision chart everything else looks the same. Patrior is slightly cheaper than Protection. One thing that I noticed is you can not renew Patriot if its bought <3months initially, however, Protection can be renewed. Any other good reasons for the price difference?

Thanks.

[reddog]

We recently got the Atlas America Insurance with 0 deductible and got two visits done for my father(chest infection). Got antibiotics prescribed, blood test done, physical checkup done. Went very smooth, no payments at all.

Said that, someone who has tested a Emergency visit or a Specialist visit or an Intensive care visit should be able to give us a better idea of who fares better.

Till date, other then a PCPs visit, I have not heard any good reviews for any insurance cos(agents).

And then there are so many agents/sub-agents floating around, that even the genuine ones dont seem so genuine.

We should have a AM/S&P kinda rating system for Visitors insurance.

[merebaap]

Insurance prices are fixed by the insurance company and filed with the government. And government regulates the price. No matter from where you buy the insurance, you will have to pay exactly the same price for the same insurance.

Therefore, it is better to buy from a broker who will be willing to help you not only at the time of sale but if any help is needed at the time of claims. If you buy directly from the insurance company, you are own your own in case you need any help.

Regarding which broker to buy from, call around and find out which one you feel more comfortable with and buy from them.

[sirinme]

I would recommend comprehensive coverage plans for parents. As far as I could tell, there is only one website that sells coverage with pre-existing conditions rider (KV Rao's India Health Network), but that is a limited coverage plan. They have daily limits on most of the hospital charges, but the hospitals usually bill you 3,4 times those daily limits, so you end up paying for the difference out of your pocket. I know this, because I have had first hand experience for my father not too long ago.

So always go for comprehensive plans even though they are more expensive if the parents have any kind of health issues (given their age, who wouldn't !?). Comprehensive plans do not have daily limits - you are only limited by the policy maximum. You are looking at at least 60-80k bill if the patient is in the hospital for 3,4 days; so go for at least 100k coverage.

The way I would look at it is, visitor medical insurance is a lot like auto insurance here. We all pay for auto insurance every few months, and we are very happy if there are no claims against that policy, right? Same thing with visitors insurance too -- buy good coverage, and be happy if you didn't have to use it. That's a small price we have to pay for the pleasure of having our parents around. :-)

[kevinkris]

Hi All,

I want to share my exp. regarding visitor insurance for my parents.
we took ICICILombard in india itself. My father has to see the doctor for
a small procedure done on this toe. He developed because of injury as he is diabetic.

And after reading so many negative reviews i was afraid whether i will get my 1200$ claim accepted or not. As i thought diabetes is a pre-existing condition.
And we also mentioned it in the insurance policy when we took.

But surprisingly we got the claim approved by ICICI Lombard last week and we got all the money (minus 100$ deductible).

So it's better to have some kind of insurance (to be on safe side) if you think the patriot and KV Rao are expensive.

Good luck.

Kris

[s_r_e_e]

are there daily limits for ICICILombard in case of hospitalization ? I couldnt find it any where in their site.

[panky72]

I know this, because I have had first hand experience for my father not too long ago.

Can you elaborate on your experience with kvrao if you don't mind sharing.

[casinoroyale]

It seems like different people have different experiences with different kinds of insurances. So it is almost clear that these insurance can act good or bad case by case basis depending upon their policies.


Hi All,

I want to share my exp. regarding visitor insurance for my parents.
we took ICICILombard in india itself. My father has to see the doctor for
a small procedure done on this toe. He developed because of injury as he is diabetic.

And after reading so many negative reviews i was afraid whether i will get my 1200$ claim accepted or not. As i thought diabetes is a pre-existing condition.
And we also mentioned it in the insurance policy when we took.

But surprisingly we got the claim approved by ICICI Lombard last week and we got all the money (minus 100$ deductible).

So it's better to have some kind of insurance (to be on safe side) if you think the patriot and KV Rao are expensive.

Good luck.

Kris

[maverick_joe]

if I had to do lab tests/ultrasound etc. does any of the comprehensive /fixed insurances cover these?

[anilvt]

I am planning to bring in my father in law in oct08...he is diabetic and 70+

anybody, who has similar scenario ...

i would like to pay more and get out of trouble of dealing with the claims

please suggest

Many thanks for all you have posted and helped the community

[pv2715]

Between KVRAO and Atlas America for covering pre-existing condition, what would you all recommend?

[NKR]

I have visitor insurance for my mother who is visiting us. Recently she developed some symptoms. The insurance company told us that since the symptoms were due to a condition that originated while she was in India, it is a pre-existing condition.

My advice to you all is to get a physical checkup for your elderly parents in India once in a while. At least you would know if there are any issues which come with old age and you can take an insurance covering those existing conditions.

[coolman]

My parents are visiting us for 3 months.My mother is 66 and father 70.They have got complete checkup done in India and are in good health.I was looking for a fixed coverage for them just in case of any emergencies.Which one do you recommend ? Does anyone have experience using insurance and getting claims with no hassle.
Thanks

[wait4ever]

:)I have used AIG for my in-laws visit and didn't had to use it. Why can't we add them to our insurance as dependants? Did anyone tried this?
You cannot add parents to your insurannce specially if it is provided through your employer - the group insurance covers only nuclear family.

Using any India based insurance is extremely risky - I know a family that went through hell and finally paid $18000 to get urgent care for their mother when she developed some tremors - this was the first time she ever got those and the India guys said it is pre-existing and denied - later the doc in India found out it was a allergic response to the pollen in Vermont. How could that be pre existing ?

The other problem is with insurance recognition - most urgent care facilities do not recognize the India insurance or at the very least treat it with extreme skepticism - best is to use US insurance in case there are questions atleast you have a local 800 number for the hospital to call.

These are your parents and this is the US health care system - spend a few hundred more and be safe.

[little_willy]

After reading through all the posts at IV, I've decided to get the Atlas America Medical insurance for my parents. This is the only comprehensive insurance I could find and most others have limited coverage. The cost is around $900 for 3 months for a $500000 policy with $2500 deductible.

Could members who had this insurance post their experience?
Also, is there any other comprehensive plan available for visitors?

[Winner]

Could members who had this insurance post their experience?
?

I think your question should be "Could members who had to use this insurance for ER visits post their experience?"

It’s good until you file a claim, but you should look for what happens after that.

[ilikekilo]

After reading through all the posts at IV, I've decided to get the Atlas America Medical insurance for my parents. This is the only comprehensive insurance I could find and most others have limited coverage. The cost is around $900 for 3 months for a $500000 policy with $2500 deductible.

Could members who had this insurance post their experience?
Also, is there any other comprehensive plan available for visitors?


we used IMG international's/sirius international patriot america with a $250 decutible 90/10, for 50K...

one thing I noticed is this company takes a long time ( most other visitor insurance companies too I suspect) for settling cliams..we still have a claim not settled since for a one in december and most of these dont cover pre existing conditions and they are very very restrictive.. however there are some insuranc companies who provide a rider for pre existing conditions for an extra dough..

just make sure to call them for any major visit (hopefdully not needed but in any case) , the one above we got was a comprehensive NOT a limited one..still I think these insurance carriers in my opinion do their best to delay the claim and do whatever they can to sneak up on you with a surprise

I would love to hear from members who had a great CLAIMS experience (not price) with any visitor ins carrier..

[little_willy]

Thanks ilikekilo, I'll check out IMG. Even with the rider for pre-existing condition, the coverage is limited to $15000 max, so I decided it isn't worth paying the extra premium for such little coverage.

[ilikekilo]

Thanks ilikekilo, I'll check out IMG. Even with the rider for pre-existing condition, the coverage is limited to $15000 max, so I decided it isn't worth paying the extra premium for such little coverage.

check this out, seems like they cover pre exosting with some limitations

http://www.health.indnet.org/

[jgh_res]

I bought Patriot America by img global for my parents. We had to take my mother to ER. The total claim was close to 10k and to my surprise imgglobal did pay exactly as whatever it said. It is not a pre existing condition. Based on my research, nobody covers a pre existing condition.

The advantage of using the american, comprehensive policy is, the hospital took the insurance card, no questions asked. Send me a PM if you want more details as it was really painful in the first place to go to ER, let alone worry about insurance.

I think your question should be "Could members who had to use this insurance for ER visits post their experience?"

It’s good until you file a claim, but you should look for what happens after that.

[ilikekilo]

I bought Patriot America by img global for my parents. We had to take my mother to ER. The total claim was close to 10k and to my surprise imgglobal did pay exactly as whatever it said. It is not a pre existing condition. Based on my research, nobody covers a pre existing condition.

The advantage of using the american, comprehensive policy is, the hospital took the insurance card, no questions asked. Send me a PM if you want more details as it was really painful in the first place to go to ER, let alone worry about insurance.

good to know taht img is decent...however iam not sure how many months tehy took to take care of that claim..we still have cl\aims from december...

thanksjgh for ur post..

[crazyghoda]

My mom took ICICI from India when she visited last year. Thankfully we never needed to visit any doc or file any claims. This year my in-laws are coming over and my FIL's health hasnt been keeping well. I have thought about using the same ICICI I took last time since its considered a cashless policy.

Has anyone had any recent experiences (post 2007) with ICICI?

[sk2006]

Where can I find medical insurance for my parents with reasonable coverage with reasonable premium. Their age is between 55 to 60. Obviously they are with some medical conditions like blood pressure, diabetic... like usual stuff like typical parents would have...Can somebody suggest good one... thanks in advance.

I took from:
http://www.kvrao.org/

They cover pre existing conditions and one consultation for pre existing condition.

[hope_4_best]

Hi,
What do you mean by IMG is very good?? Could you please elaborate??

Thanks

In Dec 2007 my dad got admitted to the hospital for 17 days due to DVT (Deep Venous Thrombosis). Total bill from the hospital was $48,000.00. IMG paid most part of it and I paid approximately $2000.00 as patient resposibility.

[a1b2c3]

good to know taht img is decent...however iam not sure how many months tehy took to take care of that claim..we still have cl\aims from december...

thanksjgh for ur post..

have also used IMG/Sirius for my mom.100k with $100 deductiible.
Is this company not recommended? How do they compare with others? Please clarify.