I already have health coverage, but it does not cover Consumables. Should I buy a new policy?

In such a case, check with your insurance provider if they provide consumables cover as an add-on. If they do, buy that add-on. If they don't cover consumables in any form, wait for the policy term to end and buy a new policy from another insurance provider that covers consumables.

How do I know if my health insurance plan provides coverage for consumables?

To determine whether your health insurance plan covers consumables, thoroughly review your insurance policy document for inclusions and exclusions.

Will my insurance cover the cost of consumables if I don't have the consumables add-on?

Consumables are an exclusion. You need to buy an add-on separately to cover these non-medical expenses. Check your policy documents for complete details.

What is consumables cover in health insurance in simple words?

Consumables are non-medical products consumed or non-payable costs patients incur while in the hospital. Single-use goods, like infant food, syringes, cotton, masks, gowns, etc., are often discarded after use. Most health insurance does not cover these non-medical products without consumables coverage.

What are hospital consumable charges?

The cost of admission/registration, attendant services, surgical tapes, cotton, surgical blades, toiletries, etc., are examples of single-use products or expenses included in the term "consumables charges" when a patient is admitted to a hospital.

Can a group health insurance policy cover consumables?

Yes, consumables are covered by some Indian group health insurance plans. However, one should consult the document to find out what is and is not covered by the policy.

Is there a cap on the amount of consumables I may claim?

No, generally, there is no cap on the consumables you can claim, but you can only claim the maximum sum insured you have opted for.

Do I have to pay for consumables upfront to get my money back?

This differs depending on the healthcare provider and insurer. Some may need payment for which you can later get reimbursement, and others may provide cashless treatment in a network hospital.

Can I include coverage for consumables in my current policy?

Yes, you can include consumables coverage as an optional benefit in your health insurance policy. Some companies provide it as an add-on, while others already include it in the coverage.

Can I claim for consumables used during outpatient treatment?

Yes, but this merely depends on your policy. Some insurance covers only consumables used during inpatient treatment, while some cover the cost of consumables during outpatient treatment. Check with your insurance provider about this.

Consumables Cover in Health Insurance and Its Benefits

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Disclaimer:Tata Capital Limited (“TCL”) registered with IRDAI (License No. CA0896, valid till 21-Jan-2027), acts as a Corporate Agent “Composite” for Go Digit General Insurance Limited. Please note that, TCL does not underwrite the risk or act as an insurer. For more details on the risk factors, terms and conditions please read sales brochure carefully of the Insurance Company before concluding the sale. Participation to buy insurance is purely voluntary.

The Registered office of TCL is Tata Capital Limited, 11th Floor, Tower A, Peninsula Business Park, Ganpatrao Kadam, Marg, Lower Parel, Mumbai-400013.
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List of Items Included in the Consumables Cover

You might be wondering how a few disposables, like masks, gloves, etc., would considerably increase the hospital bill. Well, you are not entirely wrong. Consumables used to form a small portion of the hospital bill previously, and people didn't bother much. However, recently, after the pandemic, the cost has risen due to the increased use of disposables and protective equipment.

There are a total of 199 items which can be classified under four categories. Here is the list of most preferred consumable items in health insurance plans:

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Categories of Consumable Items	Consumable Item List
Administrative Charges	Expenses incurred due to paperwork such as admission charges, visitor’s pass, discharge process, birth/death certificates, medical records, documentation expenses, etc.
House Keeping Charges	Expenses incurred due to daily use include mineral water, toothbrushes, soaps, sanitary pads, slippers, combs, shampoo, diapers, powder, and carry bags.
Room Charges	Expenses incurred due to the facilities provided in the room, such as AC, television, telephone, attendant charges, DVD player, medicine box, luxury tax, etc.
Surgical Charges	Expenses incurred due to items used in treatment such as cotton, razor, needles, syringes, surgical tape, gloves, masks, gowns, splints, braces, sutures, etc.

What is Consumables Cover in Health Insurance?

Table of Contents

What are Consumables in Health Insurance?

What is Consumables Cover in Health Insurance?

List of Items Included in the Consumables Cover

Example of Consumable Cover in Health Insurance

Why Opt for Consumables Cover in Health Insurance?

Cost of Consumables Increasing Rapidly

Lowers Out-of-Pocket Costs

No Sacrifice in the Quality of Treatment

How Consumable Cover Can Make a Difference in Your Medical Expenses?

Why are Consumables Typically Not Covered by Standard Health Insurance?

FAQs about Consumable Cover