Looking for comprehensive insurance that covers OPD charges? What NRIs should know

economictimes.indiatimes.com:

health insurance policy in India was due for renewal. Assuming it wouldn't be necessary since she was moving abroad, she didn't renew it. However, a few months later, during a visit to her parents' home in India, Asha experienced diarrhea due to the change in location and diet.

She had to visit the outpatient department (OPD) not once but thrice! Incurring a sizable cost each time on consultations, medications, and injections made her realise the importance of having a health insurance back in India.
There is a common misconception among Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) that health insurance in India is unnecessary if they are living abroad. Many believe they only need coverage when planning to settle permanently in India, but this is not entirely accurate.

Given their regular visits back home to see family, NRIs should ensure they are financially protected against medical emergencies. Purchasing comprehensive health insurance with adequate coverage is essential, as securing coverage later in life might be challenging.

Furthermore, healthcare costs in India are generally lower compared to countries like the US, UK, and Singapore. The outpatient department (OPD) is a significant component of hospital expenses during health issues, covering diagnosis, routine check-ups, follow-up visits, minor surgeries, and various therapies.

OPD is a section of a hospital where patients receive medical consultations and treatments without being admitted to the hospital. The average cost of a doctor’s visit in US ranges from $80-$170 (Rs 4,800- Rs 6,000), £100-£200 in UK (Rs 10,559-Rs 21,119) and it costs only Rs 3000-5000 in India.