Savings Account for Medical Expenses: Staying Prepared for Health Emergencies
October 14, 2024
When it comes to our health, we all want the best care possible. However, rising healthcare costs, have impacted millions of families in India. In fact, the country experienced a medical inflation rate of 14% in 2021, the highest among Asian nations. Today, having a health insurance policy may not be enough to cover burgeoning medical costs. Simultaneously, you may have to open a dedicated Savings Account for medical emergencies.
In this blog, we have deep dived into the importance opening a Savings Accounts for medical emergencies.
India’s Unique Challenges with Health Insurance Plans
Though , having a personal or family health insurance policy is an absolute must, there's still a lot of gap in terms of market penetration. A study by Policybazaar, titled 'How India Buys Insurance,' highlights the primary reasons why health insurance remains unpopular in India. Affordability and the complexity of insurance products are the two biggest hurdles.
Introducing Savings Account for Medical Expenses
Similar to Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) in the United States, savings accounts for medical expenses are designed specifically to build corpus during medical emergencies. In India, health savings accounts are still relatively new, with only a few entities providing such services.
Let’s take a look at the key features:
Differences Between Health Savings Account and Health Insurance Plans
Health Savings Account | Health Insurance Plan |
No need to pay premiums | Premiums increase with each annual renewal |
Funds are available for out-of-pocket expenses | Funds are restricted to medical expenses only |
No cap on medical expenses | There is a cap on medical expenses |
Disclaimer: The table is for educational purposes only. Ujjivan SFB doesn't endorse any such products.
Savings Account for Medical Expenses: The Need of the Hour
Given the rising healthcare costs and the barriers to obtaining health insurance, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) present a practical and effective solution for many Indians. It addresses the affordability and complexity issues associated with health insurance
By providing a flexible, tax-advantaged way to save and pay for medical expenses, HSAs can bridge the gap left by traditional health insurance plans. As more people become aware of the benefits of having a dedicated savings account for medical expenses, such accounts could play a significant role in improving financial preparedness for healthcare needs in India.
How to Maximise Your Regular Savings Account For Medical Expenses
Since not many banks in India offer Savings Account for medical expenses yet, here are some tips to maximise your Regular Savings Account:
1. Open a Savings Account for Medical Emergencies
You can open a Savings Account separately to take care of medical expenses. You can link your account to a salary account or set aside a certain corpus every month just for medical emergencies.
2. Set-up Automatic Deposits
To ensure consistent savings, set up automatic deposits from your primary bank account to your Savings Account. This way, a fixed amount will be transferred regularly without you having to remember.
3. Track Your Medical Expenses
Keep a record of your medical expenses, including bills, receipts, and insurance claim details. This will help you track how much you spend on healthcare and make informed decisions about your savings goals.
4. Regularly Review and Adjust Your Savings Goals
Periodically review your saving fund's progress and adjust your goals based on changing circumstances and healthcare needs. Consider factors such as inflation rates and changes in personal income.
Regular Savings Account vs. Health Savings Account
Regular Savings Account | Health Savings Account |
Can be used for any purpose | Specifically designed for health expenses |
Interest rates are nominal | Higher interest rates compared to regular Savings Accounts |
More flexible in terms of account usage | Has certain limitations |
Final Thoughts
Though dedicated medical savings accounts are not popular in India, you still can open a Savings Account to park funds for your medical expenses. Consider interest rates, minimum balance requirement, debit card perks, and other factors before opening a Savings Account.
If you're just starting out in your savings journey, opening a Savings Account with Ujjivan Small Finance Bank can be a good start. We have a wide variety of Savings Accounts catering to different financial needs - sign up for the one that meets your financial goals. Alternatively, you can browse through Ujjivan SFB product suite - our wide range of financial products are designed to make your financial life better.
FAQs
1. Can I use Health Savings Accounts to pay for alternative medicine treatments?
Yes, as long as the treatment qualifies as a qualified medical expense according to your provider's guidelines.
2. Can I contribute to my savings account for medical expenses even if I don't have a health insurance plan?
Yes, you can contribute to such accounts even without a health insurance plan.
3. Can I use my Health Savings Account to cover my dependent's medical expenses?
Yes, you can use your HSA funds to cover qualified medical expenses for your dependents.
4. Can I contribute to a Health Savings Account if I am covered by a high-deductible health plan provided by my employer
Yes, you can contribute to an HSA even if you have a high-deductible health plan through your employer.
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