At the International Conference on Mainstreaming HIV and AIDS, the National Aids Control Organisation (NACO) will press insurance companies and Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDA) to make insurance inclusive and universal for people living with HIV (PLHIV). The meeting is scheduled in New Delhi on the 3rd and 4th of February 2011.
Health Insurance for HIV and AIDS
At present, HIV / AIDS and related illnesses are excluded by the health insurance companies in India. The only exclusion to this is Star Health and Allied Insurance which provides cover to PLHIV in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) causes Acquired Immunodeficiency Virus (AIDS). This virus is passed from one person to another through the bloodstream. Earlier regarded as an incurable disease, it is now a manageable health problem. In India, there are over 23 lakh people affected with HIV. According to NACO reports, about 89% of these affected people are in the age group of 15 – 49 years.
Scientists and researchers are constantly developing newer drugs and medicines in an attempt to curb the infection. These drugs and treatments are very expensive. Insurance coverage for these individuals is the need of the hour.
A Union Health Ministry in a media interaction told reporters that because of these anti-retroviral drugs (ART), PLHIV is living longer and have less morbidity rates.
Joint Secretary Aradhana Johri also said that many health insurance policies do not cover PLHIV and there is a need to design health coverage for these individuals.
