India, Aug. 19 -- You've bought health insurance. But getting the policy is only the first step. IRDAI data shows that roughly one in every four rupees claimed from health insurers in 2024-25 was not paid, either because the claim was disallowed or repudiated.

If the first step is getting adequate health cover, the second is making sure you fill in the proposal form carefully and understand the policy conditions. These steps can reduce the risk of a claim being rejected or the eventual payout falling short of the hospital bill.

Insurance can be complicated, but there are several things within your control. The most important are choosing the right product and insurer, providing complete and accurate information when buying the policy, a...