Wednesday, May 5, 2010

Max Bupa Health start on life insurance industry

Max Bupa Health Insurance, a joint venture between Max India Limited and Bupa Group, an international healthcare provider, commenced operations previous week with the launch of a flagship health insurance product called ‘Heartbeat’.

‘Heartbeat’ is an individual and family oriented health insurance cover for Indians across all age groups. The new insurance plan is presented in 3 levels platinum, gold and silver provides cover for expenses as well as in-patient treatment, pre-and post-hospitalisation, maternity and childcare benefits. There is no age limit and family members across all age groups are insured with an inclusive cover ranging from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 50 lakh, depending on age.

Alliance with hospitals

Max Bupa Health Insurance has a direct working relationship with a network of 375 hospitals and healthcare providers and it will service customers directly not including third party involvement, through an in-house team of relationship managers. The company also has a 24/7 health line so that customers have easy access to health care.

With a pan India launch in six cities — Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, Chennai, Hyderabad and Bangalore, the company sees huge potential in India. Talking to Deccan Herald, Max Bupa Health Insurance Chief Executive Damien Marmion said, “India has only 3(%) per cent penetration of health insurance so we see a wonderful scope here. Also, the youth with a large disposable income comprise a majority of the population. We want to spread the message of the importance of healthier, more successful lives to them.” The company has invested Rs 151 crore in the venture.