Cashless Network Explained For First-Time Health Insurance Buyers

Table of Contents:

• What is a Cashless Network in Health Insurance?
• Types of Hospitalization in Insurance
• Cashless Claim Process - Step-by-Step
• How to Check Network Hospitals Before Buying a Policy
• Important Points to Remember
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Compare Health Insurance Plans with Better Cashless Networks

What is a Cashless Network in Health Insurance?

A cashless network refers to the list of hospitals that are officially tied up with a health insurer. If you’re admitted to a network hospital, the insurer pays the hospital directly — you don’t have to settle the bill yourself (except for non-covered expenses).

These hospitals are called “network hospitals” and they have pre-agreed processes and rates with the insurance company.

Types of Hospitalization in Insurance

There are two types of hospitalization processes under health insurance:

1. Cashless:
• Available only at network hospitals
• Insurer settles eligible bills directly with the hospital
2. Reimbursement:
• Used if treatment is taken at a non-network hospital
• You pay upfront and submit bills for reimbursement later

Cashless Claim Process - Step-by-Step

Step 1: Visit a hospital in your insurer’s network.

Step 2: Show your e-health card or policy number at the help desk.

Step 3: Hospital sends a pre-authorization form to the insurer.

Step 4: Insurer approves the treatment costs.

Step 5: You receive treatment and are discharged.

Step 6: The insurer pays the hospital directly.

You may have to pay for non-medical items or exclusions like food or toiletries.

How to Check Network Hospitals Before Buying a Policy

When comparing policies on PolicyBachat:

• Use the “Network Hospitals” filter
• Select your city to see nearby hospitals covered
• Choose the insurer with maximum hospital coverage in your area

You can also view the complete list on the insurer’s official website or ask our team during quote comparison.

Important Points to Remember

• Cashless facility is not automatic — it requires pre-authorization
• Emergency admissions should be reported to the insurer within 24 hours
• Room rent limits and exclusions still apply
• Always confirm hospital is in-network before admission

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I visit a non-network hospital?

You’ll need to pay the bill and apply for reimbursement.

Are all hospitals in my city covered?

No. Each insurer has its own network. Always check the list before buying.

Does cashless mean zero out-of-pocket expense?

Only for covered expenses. Non-covered charges may still apply.

Compare Health Insurance Plans with Better Cashless Networks

Use PolicyBachat to compare health insurance policies based on network hospitals, features, and real-time premiums - Compare Plans Now