Published Oct 8, 2025 4 Min Read

Are diagnostic tests covered in all health insurance plans?

What types of diagnostic charges are included under insurance?

Health insurance plans typically cover diagnostic expenses under specific categories. Here are the most common inclusions:

  • Pre- and post-hospitalization diagnostic tests: Many plans reimburse diagnostic charges incurred during the pre-hospitalization period (usually up to 30 days before hospital admission) and post-hospitalization period (up to 60 days after discharge). For example, if your doctor prescribes an MRI scan before surgery, the cost is likely covered under pre-hospitalization benefits.
  • In-patient diagnostic tests: Tests conducted during hospital stays are generally covered entirely under in-patient benefits. These include blood tests, imaging scans, and other diagnostics required as part of your treatment.
  • Daycare procedure diagnostics: Daycare procedures, such as minor surgeries or treatments requiring less than 24 hours of hospitalization, often include diagnostic tests. These charges are typically covered under health insurance plans.
  • Policy benefits tied to diagnostic tests: Health insurance plans facilitated by Bajaj Finserv offer comprehensive diagnostic test coverage. For instance:
    • Premiums start from Rs. 9.3/day*, making it affordable for individuals and families.
    • Sum insured ranges from Rs. 10 lakh to Rs. 50 lakh, ensuring adequate coverage for medical expenses.
    • Cashless treatment is available across 10,000+ hospitals, reducing out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic tests and treatments.

Compare health insurance plans with diagnostic test coverage today.

Disclaimer: *T&C Apply. #Insurance premium indicated is for healthy male aged 18 years and is exclusive of tax. 

Is pre-hospitalization diagnosis covered by insurance?

Understanding pre-hospitalization coverage

Yes, diagnostic expenses incurred during pre-hospitalization are often covered under health insurance plans. However, specific conditions may apply:

  • Diagnostic tests must be prescribed by a medical professional.
  • The tests should be directly related to the illness or treatment leading to hospitalization.
  • Coverage typically extends to tests conducted up to 30 days before hospital admission.

Real-life scenarios

Consider this example: You are scheduled for surgery, and your doctor prescribes an X-ray and blood tests as part of pre-operative preparation. Under most health insurance plans, these diagnostic expenses would be reimbursed as part of pre-hospitalization coverage.

Product-specific advantages

Bajaj Finserv enables access to health insurance plans that cater to individual needs. These plans offer comprehensive diagnostic charge coverage, ensuring you are financially supported during medical treatments.

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How can I save money on diagnostic charges?


To minimise diagnostic expenses, consider the following:

  • Choose plans with comprehensive coverage: Opt for policies that include pre- and post-hospitalization diagnostic tests, in-patient diagnostics, and OPD-specific coverage.
  • Family floater plans: If you are insuring your family, select a family floater plan to cover diagnostic charges for all members.
  • Critical illness policies: For conditions requiring frequent diagnostics, critical illness plans can provide additional financial protection.

Tax-saving opportunities

Health insurance premiums are eligible for tax deductions under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act. By investing in a plan with diagnostic test coverage, you can save on medical expenses and reduce your tax liability.


Tools for better decision-making

Use resources like BMI calculators provided by Bajaj Finserv to assess your health needs and choose the right insurance plan. These tools help you align your policy choice with your budget and health requirements.

Explore health insurance plans with diagnostic test coverage now.

Conclusion

Understanding diagnostic charge coverage in health insurance is essential for managing medical expenses effectively. Whether it is pre-hospitalization tests, in-patient diagnostics, or OPD-specific coverage, knowing what your policy includes can save you from unexpected costs.

With Bajaj Finserv, you can access health insurance plans that offer comprehensive diagnostic test coverage, affordable premiums starting at Rs. 9.3/day, and cashless treatment across 10,000+ hospitals.

Compare and choose the right health insurance plan today to ensure you are financially prepared for medical expenses.

Frequently asked questions

Are diagnostic tests during hospitalization covered under insurance?

Yes, diagnostic expenses during hospitalization are typically included under health insurance plans. These tests are covered as part of in-patient benefits, ensuring financial support during medical treatments.

Is OPD diagnostic testing covered by standard health plans?

Standard health insurance plans may not include diagnostic test coverage for outpatient care unless specified. Bajaj Finserv offers access to OPD-specific health plans for comprehensive coverage.

What are the exclusions for diagnostic expenses in insurance?

Diagnostic tests for preventive health check-ups or those not prescribed by a medical professional may be excluded. Always check the fine print of your policy terms before purchasing.

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Disclaimer

*T&C Apply - Bajaj Finance Limited (‘BFL’) is a registered corporate agent of third party insurance products of Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance Company Limited, HDFC Life Insurance Company Limited, Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company Limited, SBI General Insurance Company Limited, ACKO General Insurance Company Limited, HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company, TATA AIG General Insurance Company Limited, ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company Limited, New India Assurance Limited, Chola MS General Insurance Company Limited, Zurich Kotak General Insurance Company Limited, Star Health & Allied Insurance Company Limited, Care Health Insurance Company Limited, Niva Bupa Health Insurance Company Limited, Aditya Birla Health Insurance Company Limited and Manipal Cigna Health Insurance Company Limited under the IRDAI composite registration number CA0101. Please note that, BFL does not underwrite the risk or act as an insurer. Your purchase of an insurance product is purely on a voluntary basis after your exercise of an independent due diligence on the suitability, viability of any insurance product. Any decision to purchase insurance product is solely at your own risk and responsibility and BFL shall not be liable for any loss or damage that any person may suffer, whether directly or indirectly. For more details on risk factors, terms and conditions and exclusions please read the product sales brochure & policy wordings carefully before concluding a sale. Tax benefits applicable if any, will be as per the prevailing tax laws. Tax laws are subject to change. BFL does NOT provide Tax/Investment advisory services. Please consult your advisors before proceeding to purchase an insurance product. Visitors are hereby informed that their information submitted on the website may also be shared with insurers. BFL is also distributor of other third-party products from Assistance service providers such as CPP Assistance Services Private Limited, Bajaj Finserv Health Limited. etc. All product information such as premium, benefits, exclusions, value added services etc. are authentic and solely based on the information received from the respective Insurance company or the respective Assistance provider company.

Note - While we have made all the efforts and taken utmost care in gathering precise information about the products, features, benefits etc. However, BFL cannot be held liable for any direct or indirect damage/loss. We request our customers to conduct their research about these products and refer to the respective products sales brochure and policy/membership wordings before concluding sales.