The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has removed the age limit of 65 years for individuals buying health insurance policies. The insurance regulator’s decision is aimed at widening the market and fostering adequate protection from healthcare expenses.

This marks a significant departure from the conventional constraints that limited individuals in securing comprehensive coverage.

By abolishing the maximum age restriction on purchasing health insurance plans, the IRDAI aims to foster a more inclusive and accessible healthcare ecosystem, ensuring adequate protection against unforeseen medical expenses.

According to the earlier guidelines, individuals were allowed to purchase a new insurance policy only till the age of 65. However, with the recent amendment, which has been effective from April 1, anyone, regardless of age, is eligible to buy a new health insurance policy.

In a recent gazette notification, the IRDAI had said: “Insurers shall ensure that they offer health insurance products to cater to all age groups. Insurers may design products specifically for senior citizens, students, children, maternity and any other group as specified by the competent authority.”

Besides, insurers have been mandated to offer health policies to individuals with pre-existing medical conditions of any kind.

Consequently, insurers are prohibited from refusing to issue policies to individuals with severe medical conditions, like cancer, heart or renal failure and AIDS.