Several measures in the health insurance standardisation programme, set to be implemented from July 1, are customer-friendly. However, the clause pertaining to the size of hospitals may prove to be a hindrance to many, especially pregnant women.

To resolve claims faster, private general insurance companies have set up in-house third-party administrators (TPAs).

The last few years have seen a surge in various types of health insurance products being launched by various insurance companies.

"My employer already provides health insurance for my entire family. Should I take individual cover, too?" Earlier, this was often asked.

When confused between buying an online insurance plan and an offline one (that is, through a company or agent), most experts will suggest the online plan because of the low cost.

Insurance buyers, often, realise too late the policy that they have bought is either too expensive or does not give them adequate cover.

I recently bought an expensive pet dog. Are there any insurance policies, especially for pets bought from abroad?Yes. Like personal insurance, pets can also now be insured.

In case you are unable to pay premiums any more in your traditional or unit-linked insurance plans (Ulips), you can use the paid-up option. Here, the policy continues to remain valid.

The insurance industry, reeling under the impact of macro-economic conditions and low penetration, now has reason to cheer. Insurance firms have seen a higher profit margin for FY13, compared to the previous financial year.

Competition Commission has dismissed allegations of abuse of dominance by four insurance companies, including The New India Assurance Co, and sectoral regulator IRDA.

Public sector general insurers might reward customers of health insurance policies with lower premium.