Frequently i write about practices in the health insurance sector, particularly regarding Care Health Insurance. Recently, a patient with severe aortic stenosis consulted me. We provided an estimated procedure cost of approximately ₹7 lakh. The patient has a base mediclaim policy of ₹5 lakh along with a ₹45 lakh top-up cover. ​Because Care Health Insurance often disburses less than the sanctioned amount to our patients and doesn't pay if there is any complications ,we routinely ask for an upfront deposit. Now, the insurer is actively steering the patient toward a large corporate facility like Kokilaben Hospital, where the exact same surgery will likely cost at least ₹12- 15 lakh. ​When the procedure could be completed safely for ₹7 lakh, why is the insurer willing to pay upwards of ₹15 lakh to a corporate hospital?( same valve , same sutures , same outcome , only big hospital) Who ultimately absorbs this inflated cost? Policyholders do, through steadily climbing premiums. ​This is precisely why I continue to raise this issue: the growing nexus between insurance companies and large corporate chains threatens to eliminate smaller nursing homes and standalone hospitals—and policyholders are left paying the price. Remember - I am writing again - slowly all small hospitals and Nursing home will close down - only large corporate hospitals will survive and your mediclaim premium will be exorbitantly high .