People visiting the patient Department (OPD) for a simple medical advice to hospitals and clinics may soon get some insurance coverage.

Currently, insurance coverage is provided only to those who are hospitalized or severely ill patients.

Private insurers like Bajaj Allianz General Insurance and Future Generali are also in negotiations with third-party administrators (TPA) to outline the contours of the insurance center.

The APT is usually the only contact between patients and insurers. TPA perform all administrative tasks on behalf of insurers and to settle claims for patients with valid health insurance cards.

Director of Delhi-based TPA said that the size of each request would be "very small" and insurance companies have ways to make it more convenient. "The technology is an area that needs to be strengthened considerably to make it a profitable business, even if the potential is large enough to more expensive health care," he said.

A senior at the Max Bupa said the company has begun the process of day-care insurance. The Authority Insurance Regulatory and Development also addresses the issue.

Source: HT