One hospitalisation can wipe an emergency fund. Health insurance is not optional in India — medical inflation runs higher than general inflation, and employer cover disappears the day you switch jobs or get laid off.
How much cover?
- Individuals in smaller cities: ₹5–10 lakh minimum.
- Metro families: ₹10–25 lakh family floater.
- Add a super top-up once base cover is in place — cheap way to reach ₹50L+.
What to look for
- No room-rent cap (or a high one).
- Restoration benefit if cover is exhausted mid-year.
- Cashless network hospitals near you.
- Claim settlement ratio and reputation — not just premium.
- Waiting periods for pre-existing conditions.
The takeaway
Buy your own policy even if your employer covers you. Portability rules let you keep continuity benefits if you switch insurers later.