The Key to a Worry-free Life During Covid-19

The onset of COVID-19 outbreak has triggered concerns over physical health, according to findings from the Cigna COVID-19 Global Impact Study. It is a wake-up call to improve our physical health as the study found that respondents in Hong Kong scored low on sleep quality, energy levels and physical exercise.

How to improve your physical health?

1. A good night's sleep
   Aim for at least seven hours of sleep every night, and reduce intake of stimulants like caffeine and alcohol to achieve better sleep quality. Long-term sleep deprivation could weaken your immune system and increase your risk for chronic diseases.
   
   
2. Keep your spirits up
   Emotional wellbeing is part of overall good physical health. Positive thinking, stress management and having a work-life balance are key to maintain your emotional health.
   
   
3. Stay physically active
   Cut back on sedentary activities such as watching television for long hours. Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week.

Money worries from unexpected illness

As we look for ways on how to maintain good physical health, making plans for critical illness coverage is vital given the rising cost of healthcare. In 2018/19, health expenditure per capita in Hong Kong grew 5.5% year-over-year to $23,815, according to the local authority.

Medical bills incurred from unexpected illnesses is a significant source of stress that can affect patients’ recovery. A study carried out by the American Cancer Society shows that cancer survivors experience above average rates of medical hardship. Stress over unpaid bills and treatment delay due to cost could lead to changes in health behaviours and jeopardize treatment outcome, according to the study

Worry-free lifestyle: better protection, better flexibility, less worries

Cigna's Worry Free Protection Plan makes it easier for patients to receive the best treatment for critical illnesses, with better financial security to their peace of mind while undergoing recovery. This plan covers common critical illnesses including cancer, stroke, heart disease, Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease as well as kidney failure and major organ transplant.

The coverage includes 39 early stage critical illnesses where patients can receive payment equivalent to 20% of sum insured for up to two covered early-stage critical illnesses.

The plan's wellness solution offers a holistic program from screening and diagnosis to receiving and coping with the side effects of treatment, as well as a digital library of fitness and well-being video clips to care and protect your worry-free life.

Unlike most general medical plans, a critical illness insurance plan offers one-off or multiple lump sum payments upon diagnosis rather than reimbursements that are limited by the plan's coverage. Payment for the plan is not limited to medical expenses. The amount can be used as supplementary income when patients are undergoing recovery.

Extended reading: The Differences Between Critical Illness & Medical Insurance

Sources:

1. HKSAR Government: Health expenditure, 1989/90 – 2018/19
2. Cigna: Press Release
3. National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine - An Overview of Current Physical Activity Recommendations in Primary Care
4. Reuters: Cancer survivors face stress from steep medical bills