A new nationwide survey has found that a large majority of Indians see healthcare costs as a major threat to their financial future, highlighting deep anxieties around medical inflation, emergency preparedness, and environmental health risks.<\/p>\n
The findings come from the \u0905-Nishchit Index 2.0, commissioned by Aditya Birla Sun Life Insurance (ABSLI) and data-validated by Drshti Strategic Research Services, which maps perceptions of health, risk, and financial security across urban and semi-urban households.
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\nRising medical costs top concerns
The survey shows that 82% of respondents worry that rising healthcare expenses will become a serious future challenge, reflecting concerns over hospital bills, treatment costs, and long-term medical inflation.<\/p>\n
An equal share \u2014 82% \u2014 also fears sudden medical emergencies, indicating that health shocks are no longer seen as rare events but as likely financial disruptions that can strain household budgets.<\/p>\n
Insurance confidence gap persists<\/p>\n
Despite growing awareness about health risks, preparedness remains weak. Nearly 79% of Indians are unsure whether their existing insurance cover would adequately protect them against a serious illness, the survey found.<\/p>\n
This uncertainty means many families may still depend on personal savings or emergency borrowing during medical crises, potentially derailing long-term financial goals.<\/p>\n
Emergency savings remain inadequate<\/p>\n
\nFinancial buffers appear fragile. Around 80% of respondents lack confidence in their emergency savings, suggesting that even short hospital stays could create significant financial stress for many households.<\/p>\n
Financial planners say this highlights the need for dedicated medical emergency funds separate from regular savings.<\/p>\n
Pollution adds to health fears<\/p>\n
Environmental concerns also shape financial anxieties. 81% of respondents believe pollution will worsen, and many link this directly to higher future medical costs and increased health risks.<\/p>\n
Experts note that this perception may push more households to prioritise preventive healthcare, insurance, and medical savings.<\/p>\n
What households can do<\/p>\n
Based on the findings, the Index suggests a three-pronged approach to strengthen financial resilience:
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