Health Insurance in Your 50s: Recommended Cover and Caveats

The fifth decade often brings a spike in hospital visits, and insurers may ask for medical underwriting before issuing a new policy. Because of this, buying a robust plan early is advisable.

Financial planners typically recommend a total sum insured of ₹25 lakh to ₹50 lakh, calibrated to your health profile, family disease history, and retirement plans. A higher cover helps manage the cost of prolonged hospital stays, surgeries, and post‑operative care.

Pay close attention to co‑payment clauses. Some policies require the insured to bear a percentage of each claim, which can erode the benefit of a large sum insured if not managed wisely.