NCPEDP Survey on Health Insurance for Persons with Disabilities
A nationwide survey conducted by the National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP) between 2023 and 2025 highlights significant challenges faced by persons with disabilities in accessing health insurance.
Key Findings
- 80% of persons with disabilities lack health insurance.
- 53% of applicants face rejection, often without explanation.
- Common reasons for rejection include disabilities or pre-existing conditions, especially for those with autism, psychosocial disabilities, intellectual disabilities, and blood disorders like thalassemia.
Systemic Inequities
The survey reveals systemic inequities despite constitutional guarantees, IRDAI directives, and the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016:
- Discriminatory underwriting practices.
- Unaffordable premiums.
- Inaccessible digital insurance platforms.
- Lack of awareness of available schemes.
White Paper: 'Inclusive Health Coverage for All'
NCPEDP released a white paper during a national roundtable with policymakers and industry leaders, addressing these issues. Key points include:
- Exclusion of persons with disabilities from Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) despite health vulnerabilities.
- Violated rights due to lack of affordable, comprehensive health insurance.
Recommendations
The white paper suggests several recommendations to address systemic gaps:
- Immediate inclusion of all persons with disabilities in Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) without age or income criteria.
- Enhanced coverage for mental health, rehabilitation, and assistive technologies.
- Creation of a disability inclusion committee within IRDAI.
- Increased awareness among insurers and healthcare staff on disability-sensitive service delivery.
