Can Students or First-Time Employees Buy Health Insurance?

Yes. First-time employees and students can purchase health insurance when they meet the insurance company’s eligibility criteria. Many of the health insurance plans allow adults aged 18 years and above to purchase coverage. In fact, many experts suggest purchasing health insurance in your 20s or early 30s. It is because the premiums are much lower and coverage options might be broader at a younger age.

Why is Buying Health Insurance Early a Good Idea?

Young adults are much healthier and are less likely to have any pre-existing medical conditions. As a result, insurance companies might provide coverage at affordable premium rates. Buying a policy early can also help in completing the waiting periods before healthcare needs start to rise in the future. Some of the common benefits of purchasing health insurance at a young age include:

• Better financial protection against unexpected medical costs


• Lower premium expenses


• Opportunity to earn a cumulative or NCB (No Claim Bonus) for claim-free years


• Gives access to a diverse range of coverage options


• Easier completion of the waiting periods.

Why Should Students Consider Health Insurance?

Many learners rely on their parents’ health insurance coverage. However, having a separate policy might help in certain situations. It can provide the following:

• Gives access to preventive healthcare advantages, depending on the policy.


• Protection against unexpected hospitalisation costs.


• Early completion of the policy waiting periods.


• Coverage when living or studying away from home.

Medical emergencies like sudden illness, infections or accidents can take place at any age. A health insurance policy can lower the out-of-pocket healthcare costs.

Why is Health Insurance Important for First-Time Employees?

Many employers provide group health insurance as part of the employee benefits. But depending only on the employer-provided coverage might not always be enough. An individual policy might provide the following:

• Continued coverage even when changing jobs.


• Coverage customised to personal healthcare needs.


• Long-term policy continuity benefits.


• A separate sum insured that does not rely on employment status

Purchasing health insurance early might also make it a lot easier to acquire coverage before developing any pre-existing condition.

What Age is Generally Considered Suitable for Purchasing Health Insurance?

The table below offers a clear insight into the age at which people should purchase health insurance:

What Should Young Adults Check Before Purchasing a Policy?

Before buying health insurance, first-time employees and learners must check the following:

• Policy renewal terms


• Sum Policy renewal terms


• Sum insured amount


• Add-on covers and the optional benefits


• Waiting periods for certain health ailments


• Network hospitals are available for cashless treatment


• Coverage exclusions and inclusions

Picking a health insurance plan based on the existing healthcare needs and future requirements ensures proper financial protection. The claim outcomes and coverage depend heavily on the policy terms, medical underwriting, exclusions, and conditions. Be sure to review the policy details properly before buying health insurance.