Bank Staff Left in the Lurch as TPA Rejects Ayurveda Treatments Despite Policy Cover

A wave of concern is sweeping through the banking fraternity as several employees and retirees under the Group Medical Insurance Policy have reported arbitrary denial of AYUSH treatment claims — particularly those pertaining to Ayurveda.

The issue came to light after the new Third Party Administrator (TPA) engaged by the National Insurance Company Ltd. began rejecting claims from employees who sought treatment at recognized Ayurvedic hospitals, even though these institutions are duly approved under the Government of India’s AYUSH scheme.

What has baffled many is that similar claims were smoothly honoured earlier when Ericson TPA handled the medical policy. The sudden shift in interpretation by the new TPA has caused distress and confusion among insured staff and pensioners alike.

“When the policy itself covers AYUSH systems, why are genuine claims being refused now?” questioned a senior officer who faced rejection despite taking treatment at an accredited Ayurveda hospital.

🔎 Policy Intent Undermined

The Group Medical Insurance Scheme for bank employees was envisioned as a comprehensive welfare measure, encompassing modern as well as traditional systems of medicine recognized under the Ministry of AYUSH.

However, the current TPA’s stand appears to undermine this inclusive spirit, effectively discriminating against beneficiaries who opt for Ayurvedic or holistic healing approaches.

🏛️ Representation to IBA

Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) must step up to bring immediate intervention to: 

1. Direct the insurer and TPA to uniformly accept claims from registered AYUSH institutions.

2. Prevent any discrimination based on treatment modality.

3. Reconsider all pending and rejected AYUSH-related claims in a fair and transparent manner.

💬 Call for Corrective Action

Bankers’ associations have emphasized that changing the TPA should not alter the fundamental rights of beneficiaries under the same policy framework. The denial of rightful claims not only erodes trust but also defeats the very purpose of the group insurance scheme designed to ensure health security for employees and retirees.

Bank employees and retirees look forward to an early and sympathetic action from the IBA and National Insurance Company Ltd., ensuring that wellness through AYUSH remains protected under our Group Medical Policy — just as it was intended.

> 🕊️ Health care is a right, not a privilege. Let fairness prevail for every banker and every healing system.

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