Exactly what to keep ready during planned and emergency admissions.
Hospital emergencies can happen suddenly — an accident, severe pain, breathing difficulty, high fever, or any unexpected medical issue.
During such moments, panic makes things worse. That’s why having a clear
hospitalization emergency checklist can save time, reduce stress, and ensure quick treatment.
1. Carry Essential Documents
Always keep these documents ready in a folder or digital format:
- Aadhaar Card / PAN Card
- Health Insurance Policy Copy
- TPA/Insurer ID Card
- Previous medical reports
- Prescription of ongoing treatment
- Emergency contact numbers
- Employer health card (if corporate policy)
Tip: Save digital copies on your phone + email for backup.
2. Know the Nearest Network Hospitals
For cashless treatment, you must go to a network hospital of your insurer.
- Keep a list of 2–3 nearest network hospitals
- Save emergency numbers of hospitals
- Check which hospitals offer 24/7 emergency departments
Tip: You can find network hospitals on your insurer’s website or app.
3. Inform Your Insurance Provider Immediately
During hospitalization, inform the insurer within 24 hours (for emergency cases).
- Call customer care number
- Use the insurer’s app
- Inform the TPA/insurance desk at the hospital
Delay in intimation = claim delay or rejection.
4. Keep an Emergency Medical Kit Ready
- Basic medicines (painkillers, fever tablets, antacids)
- First-aid kit
- Blood pressure monitor
- Blood sugar testing kit (if required)
- Thermometer
- ORS packs
5. Arrange Immediate Cash
Even with cashless insurance, you may need money for:
- Admission deposit (refundable)
- Consumables not covered (gloves, syringes, etc.)
- Ambulance charges (if not covered)
- Extra medicines
Keep at least ₹5,000–₹10,000 available for such expenses.
6. Inform Family or Trusted Friends
During emergencies, keep someone informed who can:
- Accompany you
- Help with hospital formalities
- Coordinate with the insurance desk
- Bring additional documents
7. Carry Your Regular Medication List
If you take daily medications, carry:
- List of medicines
- Dosage details
- Any allergy information
8. Keep Your Medical History Updated
Carry or save in phone:
- Past surgeries
- Chronic illness details
- Allergies
- Recent test reports
- Current ongoing treatment details
9. Check Cashless Approval Status
Once admitted:
- Go to the hospital insurance desk
- Submit policy copy + KYC
- Fill pre-authorization form
- Track cashless approval SMS/email
Approval usually takes 30–90 minutes.
10. Collect All Bills and Discharge Summary
Before leaving the hospital:
- Take all original bills
- Collect discharge summary
- Keep all prescriptions
- Collect lab and test reports
- Take claim forms (if reimbursement)
Conclusion
A medical emergency can be overwhelming, but being prepared makes everything easier.
With the right documents, hospital information, insurance details, and emergency contacts,
you can ensure quick treatment without financial stress.
Preparation today = Protection tomorrow.
