Factors Influencing Portability of Health Insurance Policy: A Study in Mumbai City

Abstract

This study attempted to explore the factors which influence portability of indemnity-based health insurance policies. The researcher used a descriptive research design and collected primary data by surveying 385 Mumbaiker respondents who opted for health insurance policies in Mumbai city. The five portability related factors identified were (i) service quality, (ii) inadequate coverage, (iii) claim related issues, (iv) customization of cover, and (v) lower premium. The most important factor influencing the choice of portability was service quality, followed by inadequate coverage, claim-related customization of cover and lower premium. It was assumed that these five factors should be considered by health insurers who can ensure to retain their policyholders and render the desired customer service promptly and efficiently.