How to Port Your Health Insurance Policy without Losing Benefits?

Are you unhappy with your current health insurer but worried about losing your benefits? Porting your health insurance policy might be the solution you need.

Many policyholders switch to get better coverage, lower premiums, or improved service—without starting from scratch. Let's explore how to make the move wisely and retain everything you've earned.

What is Health Insurance Portability?

Health insurance portability allows you to switch from one insurer to another while retaining key policy benefits. You don't have to lose your waiting period, no-claim bonus, or pre-existing illness coverage.

People choose to port their policy for several reasons:

1. To get better customer service or claims experience

2. To access a wider network of hospitals

3. To reduce premiums without reducing coverage

4. To upgrade to a more flexible or comprehensive plan

5. To get add-on benefits or value-added services

No matter the reason, porting gives you a fresh start without losing past gains.

6 Steps to Port Your Health Insurance Policy

Here's a clear roadmap to help you port your policy without hassles:

1. Compare and Evaluate Plans

Before switching, review your current policy and compare it with what other insurers offer. Focus on:

- Premium vs sum insured

- Waiting period for pre-existing diseases

- Claim settlement ratio

- Cashless hospital network

- Maternity or critical illness cover

2. Initiate the Porting Request in Advance

Apply for porting at least 45-60 days before your renewal date. This gives the new insurer enough time to evaluate and process your request.

3. Fill out the Proposal and Portability Forms

Once you've chosen your new insurer, complete:

- The proposal form for the new policy

- The health insurance portability form

Also, provide the following documents:

- Previous policy copy

- ID and address proof

- Medical history and reports (if applicable)

- Claim details, if any

4. Undergo Medical Tests (If Required)

Depending on your age, health history, and policy type, the new insurer may request medical tests. This step helps them assess your risk before approval.

5. Wait for the Insurer's Decision

Your new insurer has 15 working days to accept or reject your application. If they do not respond at this time, your porting request is automatically approved as per IRDAI norms.

6. Pay the Premium and Receive Your New Policy

Once approved, pay the premium for the new policy. The insurer will issue a new policy document, and your previous benefits will continue without a break.

What Happens to Your Benefits When You Port?

When you port health insurance, several key benefits are carried forward:

Note: The only condition is that there must be no break in policy renewal between old and new insurers.

Choosing the Right Health Insurance Plan During Porting

While porting, don't just look for cheaper premiums. Choose a health insurance plan that suits your life stage, family needs, and future risks. Here's how:

5 Must-have Features in a Good Health Insurance Plan

Here are the five features that should be there in a good health insurance plan:

1. Wide hospital network

More options for cashless treatment

2. Low claim rejection ratio

Indicates reliable service

3. Flexible cover options

Add-ons like maternity, OPD, or critical illness

4. Daycare procedures covered

For treatments not requiring a 24-hour hospital stay

5. Lifelong renewability

Ensures continuous protection as you age

5 Popular Types of Health Insurance Plans to Consider

1. Individual health insurance

Best suited for young professionals or individuals with specific needs.

2. Family floater plans

One policy for the whole family. Cost-effective and easy to manage.

3. Senior citizen plans

Tailored for people aged 60+. Includes features like annual health check-ups and specialised care.

4. Top-up and super top-up plans

Extend your existing cover at a lower cost. Ideal when a basic cover is not enough.

5. Critical illness plans

Provide a lump sum on diagnosis of life-threatening illnesses. Helpful for long-term care costs.

Documents You'll Need to Port Your Policy

Keep these documents ready while initiating the porting process:

1. Existing health insurance policy copy

2. Renewal notice or payment receipt

3. KYC documents (ID and address proof)

4. Proposal and portability forms

5. Medical reports (if requested by the new insurer)

6. Previous claim records, if any

Having everything in place will speed up the approval process.

Debunking Common Myths About Health Insurance Portability

Let's clear up some confusion around this topic:

Myth 1: Porting Resets Your Waiting Period

Truth: You carry forward the time already served

Myth 2: Only Similar Plans can be Ported

Truth: You can change the type, sum insured, and even features

Myth 3: Porting is Risky and May Lead to Rejection

Truth: If all documents are in place, approvals are smooth under IRDA rules

Myth 4: You Need to Inform Both Insurers

Truth: Your new insurer handles communication with the old one

6 Tips for a Hassle-free Health Insurance Porting Experience

Want to make the switch without stress? Follow these simple tips:

1. Don't wait till the last minute

2. Research and compare before choosing

3. Be transparent about medical history

4. Keep documents handy

5. Understand terms and inclusions clearly

6. Don't allow any break in policy renewal

Planning ensures your coverage remains intact.

Health insurance portability allows you to choose better coverage without sacrificing your existing benefits. Whether you want improved service, more flexible plans, or just a better fit for your family, porting is a smart move. Just follow the steps, stay informed, and make the transition seamless.