Overview

On World Heart Day, Universal Sompo General Insurance released a press statement highlighting a sustained rise in cardiac claims originating from non‑metropolitan areas over the past three financial years.

Changing Geography of Cardiac Claims

The insurer reports that claims from Tier‑2 cities have more than doubled during this period, while Tier‑3 cities continue to represent a significant share of cardiac‑related hospitalisations outside the metros. Overall, nearly seven in ten (approximately 70%) of Universal Sompo’s cardiac claims now come from non‑metro locations, reflecting an expanding demand for cardiac care in smaller cities and towns.

Drivers of the Shift

Universal Sompo attributes the shift to improved access to diagnostic facilities, greater availability of specialised treatment, rising health awareness and increased healthcare utilisation in Tier‑2 and Tier‑3 cities.

Nature of Cardiac Conditions and Ongoing Costs

The company notes that cardiac conditions such as rhythm disorders, coronary artery disease and congenital heart diseases often require regular monitoring, medication and, in some cases, repeated medical interventions, making long‑term disease management essential.

Indicative Treatment Costs

Indicative costs disclosed by the insurer are:

  • Coronary angiography and medical management: Rs 1‑2.5 lakh;
  • Coronary angioplasty: Rs 2.5‑4 lakh;
  • Bypass surgery: Rs 4.5‑6.5 lakh;
  • Aortic valve replacement: Rs 12‑16 lakh.

Actual expenses may vary depending on the hospital, geographic location, procedural complexity and individual clinical requirements.

Financial Preparedness and Insurance Role

Universal Sompo stresses that an unexpected cardiac event can impose both health and financial burdens on households. Adequate health insurance, the insurer argues, can provide financial support against eligible hospitalisation expenses, enabling patients to access appropriate treatment without bearing the full cost.

Executive Comment

Varsha Gujarathi, Chief Customer Officer of Universal Sompo General Insurance, said, “We are seeing cardiac care needs increasingly emerge from smaller cities and towns, reflecting the changing healthcare landscape in India. While improved access to diagnosis and specialised treatment is encouraging, it also reinforces the need to focus on prevention, regular health screening and early intervention. Equally important is financial preparedness. Adequate health insurance coverage can help families manage the financial impact of a serious cardiac event and focus on recovery without the added burden of unexpected medical expenses.”

About Universal Sompo General Insurance

Universal Sompo is a joint venture between Indian Bank, Indian Overseas Bank, Karnataka Bank, Dabur Investments and the global insurer SOMPO. Headquartered in Mumbai, the company operates 132 offices nationwide and maintains a digitally enabled presence across more than 300 cities. Its distribution network includes agents, point‑of‑sale personnel, bank branches, automobile dealers, brokers, common service centres and digital/e‑commerce platforms. Universal Sompo offers a portfolio of 183 products and 2,127 add‑on covers, serving retail, SME and corporate customers across motor, health, property, marine, engineering, liability, employee benefits and other specialised insurance lines.

Publication Details

The press release was issued on Tuesday, 29 September 2026 at 15:50:38 IST.