New Delhi, Feb. 23 -- I was recently declined health insurance for sum assured above Rs.5 lakh after declaring my spine slip disc (L4/L5) and sharing MRI reports from 2022 and 2025. I have not had surgery nor been advised one. I already have a policy of Rs.10 lakh. Is it worth exploring further insurance options? I am also considering a critical illness cover-does that make sense?

-Name withheld on request

Health insurance in India comes with a lifelong renewal guarantee. Once a policy is issued, insurers are legally required to renew it-even if your health deteriorates later.

That's why insurers tend to be cautious at the underwriting stage when they see conditions that could lead to long-term or repeat claims, such as spinal issues. ...