Q: What is the time limit or prescribed time for renewal of Mediclaim Insurance Policy from the date when it expires under the National Insurance Company. Is a 4 to 6 days delay in renewal of an old Mediclaim Insurance Policy make ground for the Company to refuse claim? Kindly treat this as urgent.

A:Any break in the policy is grounds for discontinuation of benefits as per the earlier policy. In case of a break, the insurance company can allow continuation of benefits only if you explicitly request for the same after giving acceptable reasons for the break in the cover. The Divisional Manager generally has powers to allow for such exceptions if requested within 7 days of the lapse. But this has to be in writing to continue the cover especially for the cumulative bonus and pre existing disease/first year exclusions benefits. Legally they are correct in repudiation of the cover. I advise you to request them for granting the cover and alternatively in case you feel being wronged, you may as well approach the insurance ombudsman in your area for helping you solve the matter.