How can insurance schemes improve the quality and accessibility of cataract surgery for the elderly in India?

Cataract is a leading cause of blindness among the elderly in India. Many seniors face barriers like high surgery costs and limited access to quality eye care. Insurance schemes can play a vital role in addressing these issues and improving both the quality and accessibility of cataract surgery for the ageing population.

• Financial Protection: Insurance reduces the out-of-pocket expenditure for cataract surgery, making it affordable for low-income and vulnerable elderly groups.
• Increased Access: Insurance coverage encourages more hospitals and clinics to offer cataract surgeries, especially in rural and underserved areas, by ensuring payment for services rendered.
• Quality Assurance: Many insurance schemes empanel only accredited hospitals and set minimum quality standards, incentivizing providers to maintain better surgical outcomes and hygiene.
• Comprehensive Care: Insurance often covers pre-operative screening, surgery, post-operative care, and follow-up visits, leading to better patient outcomes and reduced complications.
• Awareness and Outreach: Government insurance schemes like Ayushman Bharat and state health programs conduct awareness drives, informing the elderly about available benefits and encouraging timely treatment.
• Reduction in Delayed Treatment: With financial worries reduced, elderly patients are less likely to postpone surgery, preventing progression to blindness and associated disabilities.
• Promotion of Advanced Techniques: Insurance coverage may include advanced surgical options (like phacoemulsification), encouraging providers to adopt modern, safer methods that improve recovery and outcomes.