There has been a notable surge in health insurance policyholders availing treatments under AYUSH—Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy—since the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) mandated its inclusion in standard health policies. According to Chennai-based insurers and hospitals, both awareness and acceptance of AYUSH treatments have grown significantly in the past year.
Earlier, AYUSH coverage was limited to specific health plans or add-ons, leading to low utilisation. However, the IRDAI’s directive to integrate AYUSH in all health insurance offerings has brought these treatments into the mainstream. Insurers report a marked increase in claims related to Ayurvedic and Siddha treatments, particularly for chronic conditions such as arthritis, skin diseases, and lifestyle disorders.
Hospitals with AYUSH wings have also seen higher footfall from insured patients, reflecting growing trust in traditional systems. Industry experts say that rising medical costs and the search for holistic, long-term wellness solutions are driving the trend.
The move also supports the government’s broader goal of promoting traditional medicine and integrating it into the healthcare system.
