Health Claim Denied? The Legal & Practical Recovery Playbook

By Hari Kotian, IRDAI-Certified Insurance Advisor · 2026

If the GRO reply is unsatisfactory, file with the Insurance Ombudsman - free, semi-judicial, and binding on the insurer. Acknowledgment in 3-5 working days, awards typically within 3 months.

What not to do

Do not accept the first rejection at face value, do not miss the GRO window, and do not discard medical records or hospital bills - they are your appeal evidence.

Step 1: Written rejection letter

By regulation the insurer must provide a written rejection citing the specific policy clause. If they have not, write a formal letter demanding one and keep every communication with dates.