Bariatric Surgery Addressing Chronic Disease Is Life-Saving Procedure : Delhi State Commission Holds United India Insurance For Deficiency In Service

The Delhi State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission held United India Insurance Company liable for deficiency in service after denying a claim for bariatric surgery. The insured argued that the surgery was essential to address chronic diseases, making it a life-saving procedure rather than cosmetic. The insurer’s rejection based on policy terms was deemed arbitrary, as it failed to consider the medical necessity of the procedure. The commission emphasized that health insurance policies should be interpreted in favor of the insured when ambiguity arises. This decision underscores the importance of recognizing life-saving surgeries under health insurance coverage and promotes patient-centric insurance practices.