A discharge summary is a detailed summary of a patient's hospital stay. It details all the treatment procedures, medications, and post-discharge care instructions. While it may appear to be just a medical note a patient receives during discharge, it plays a significant role that extends beyond the hospital. For individuals seeking to reimburse their expenses under a healthcare policy, this document plays a crucial role in the claims process. Understanding the importance of the discharge summary for insurance claims can help file a successful claim registration.
Plans start at just ₹21/day*.
We pay 100% of your hospital bills
From syringes to surgeries
No limit on hospital room rent
No compromises on recovery
Put simply, a discharge summary includes pointers on what happened to the patient in the hospital. It also mentions all the instructions to be followed post-discharge to reduce the chances of rehospitalisation. Here are some details mentioned in the discharge summary.
The discharge summary of the hospital is one of the primary documents insurers will look for before approving a claim. It helps them understand the following.
The purpose of a discharge summary is to enable the insurer to ensure that the policyholder is hospitalised. It also helps determine the length of the hospital stay and the procedures performed during treatment. Here's how the insurance claim process works.
The clarity and accuracy of a hospital discharge summary are essential for a successful claims process. Without this clarity, your claim can be delayed or rejected; here's how:
The insurer might reject your claim without a clear and accurate discharge summary.
Without clarification, the insurer will put your claim on hold.
A discharge summary gives a gist of the total expenses. If there is a difference between the discharge summary and other documents, the insurance company will reduce the approved claim amount.
Some of the common mistakes in discharge summaries that can affect your health insurance claims process are.
The best way to ensure your discharge summary is insurance-ready is by avoiding common mistakes. Here's what you can do:
You should check all the important documents, including the discharge summary, before leaving the hospital. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the hospital for clarification.
The discharge summary is not just a hospital document; its role extends beyond it. It is one of the most basic documents you will require to submit a health insurance claim. The health insurance claim process may seem tedious, especially when you are suffering from an illness. Knowing what a discharge summary is and how it impacts insurance claims can help minimise the chances of rejection.
2.5K Linkedin Followers 
Reviewed by Dr. Harshita Dahiya 
Acko Technology & Services Private Limited
#36/5, Hustlehub One East, Somasandrapalya, 27th Main Rd, Sector 2, HSR Layout, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560102
Products 
Company
Legal
Support
Car Insurance 
Bike Insurance
Health Insurance
Group Health Insurance
Travel Insurance
Life Insurance
