Critical Health Services for your Smooth Transition back to India

Healthcare services are not directly tied to processing funds when returning to India, but they are critical for ensuring a smooth transition, especially if you’re moving permanently or have dependents. Here’s how healthcare and financial readiness intersect during your return and how India Wapsi concierge will be at your side :

1. Health Insurance Coverage

• Porting International Health Insurance
  • Check if your health insurance from the host country can be extended or transferred to cover you in India.
  • If not, terminate the policy and claim any eligible refunds.
• Buying Indian Health Insurance
  • Research and purchase a health insurance policy in India before or shortly after arrival.
  • Ensure the policy includes adequate coverage for pre-existing conditions, hospitalization, and outpatient care.
• Critical Illness Insurance
  • If you or a dependent has a chronic or critical condition, consider a policy that provides additional coverage for such illnesses.

2. Emergency Medical Fund

• Set Aside Funds for Medical Emergencies
  • Keep an emergency fund specifically for unexpected medical expenses during the transition period.
  • If you’re transferring funds internationally, prioritize ensuring access to this portion immediately upon arrival.
• Reimbursement or Claims for Treatment Abroad
  • If you’ve had recent medical treatments abroad, ensure all claims are processed and reimbursed before leaving.

3. Medical Records Transfer

• Digitize and Bring Medical Records
  • Carry comprehensive medical records, including prescriptions, vaccination records, and treatment histories, to facilitate continuity of care in India.
• Specialist Referrals
  • If you have ongoing treatments, ask your current doctors for referrals or recommendations for specialists in India.

4. Setting Up Healthcare in India

• Register with a Local Doctor or Clinic
  • Upon arrival, register with a general physician or a healthcare facility in your area.
  • Familiarize yourself with nearby hospitals and emergency services.
• Government Healthcare Schemes
  • Check your eligibility for Indian government healthcare schemes like Ayushman Bharat if you’re returning permanently.

5. COVID-19 and Vaccination Considerations

• COVID-19 Guidelines
  • Ensure you meet the current COVID-19 requirements for international travellers to India, including vaccinations or testing protocols.
• Vaccinations and Preventive Care
  • Update any vaccinations as recommended by Indian health authorities or your doctor.

6. Financial Implications of Healthcare in India

• Out-of-Pocket Costs
  • Healthcare in India can range from affordable to expensive, depending on whether you use government or private services. Ensure your budget accounts for initial medical expenses.
• Tax Benefits on Health Insurance
  • Health insurance premiums in India are eligible for tax deductions under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act, which can ease financial strain.

7. Special Considerations for Dependents

• Elderly Dependents
  • Arrange for geriatric care services, including health insurance plans tailored for senior citizens, as they may have higher healthcare needs.
• Children’s Health Needs
  • Transfer vaccination records and ensure children are enrolled in a pediatric care program in India.

Key Documents for Healthcare and Financial Readiness:

• Medical records and prescriptions
• Proof of prior health insurance
• Vaccination certificates
• Bank details for cashless claims in Indian hospitals
• PAN Card (for tax benefits on insurance premiums)

Would you like guidance on choosing health insurance or medical services in India? Please reach out to India Wapsi team at anikbiswas@anikbiswasgmail.com for more details !