Medisep: Government to increase premium; will the insurance be made optional?

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The Kerala government is all set to begin the discussions to expand the Medisep medical insurance coverage for government employees and pensioners, by next week. The report for renewing the treatment packages has been submitted. Meanwhile, the authorities noted that the premium would be increased as packages have been newly added or renewed due to a hike in the medical expenses. Currently, the monthly premium is Rs 500. The Oriental Insurance Company manages the project. The three-year contract with them will expire on June 30, 2025; the new contract should be finalised before this. The current packages were adopted around two years before signing this contract.
There are various reports that as demanded by various employees and pensioners, the mandatory enrolment feature of the insurance will be changed soon. Recently, various service organisations have demanded the ‘opt out’ option, saying they are not satisfied with the service, and that many hospitals treat them as lower-tier customers due to their numerous shortcomings. The government is also likely to change its decision to exclude private insurance companies from the scheme. The number of Medisep beneficiaries, including employees, pensioners, family members, and dependents, is 30.82 lakh. We have requested a comment from the state Health Minister, and the report will be updated as and when she responds.