These are a set of queries raised by ET Wealth readers, which have been answered by our panel of experts.

My 78-year-old mother never had any health insurance. Can she now get one? Till what age can one get health insurance?

Sarbvir Singh, Joint Group CEO, PB Fintech: Yes, she can obtain health insurance now. The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has removed the upper age limit for purchasing health insurance policies, making coverage significantly more accessible to senior citizens. Many insurers have introduced plans specifically tailored for older individuals, incorporating features aligned with their evolving healthcare needs. A number of these policies no longer impose mandatory co-payment clauses for senior citizens, which was earlier a common requirement. Health insurance products have also become more modular and flexible, allowing policyholders to customise coverage with add-ons and riders. In some products, coverage for a large number of pre-existing diseases—sometimes up to 145 conditions— is available from day one, subject to policy terms. However, eligibility, premium pricing, and the extent of coverage at advanced ages still depend on the insurer’s underwriting norms and specific product structure. Comparing plans across insurers before making a decision would be prudent, especially in cases involving senior citizens.

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I am in my mid-40s with two dependent family members and an existing health insurance cover of Rs.25 lakh. How often should health cover be reviewed at this stage of life, and what key red flags—such as sub-limits, co-payments, or room-rent caps—should I watch out for to ensure my policy does not fail me at the time of a major claim?

Kapil Mehta, Co-Founder, SecureNow Insurance Broker:

You should review your health cover every three years. At the high sum assured you have, your policy should not include room rent or significant disease-wise restrictions. If restrictions exist, consider porting to a better product. Policy terms can change at renewal, so check these restrictions during each review. It is equally important to look for ways to increase your sum assured over time. A good benchmark is to have coverage equal to at least twice the cost of treating a serious cancer. The rationale for this is to account for medical cost escalation over the next decade. In metros today, cancer treatment can cost Rs 20–30 lakh. This means you should have a sum assured of Rs 50 lakh or more. This can be achieved through the No-Claim Bonus on your current policy or by purchasing a cost-effective top-up plan.

Our panel of experts will answer questions related to any aspect of personal finance. If you have a query, mail it to us right away. Email ID: etwealth@timesgroup.com