HEALTH insurance is a relatively new phenomenon in India. Hence, it is not on the top of the mind for most people to make a conscious commitment towards health insurance. However, it is imperative for each one of us to plan for better health for our families and ourselves.

There's no better way than to start with making health your top priority this year. So, your health insurance resolution charter would look something like:

■ Invest in health for wealth: Timely investment in health insurance can help build a security net and hedge sudden dilution of another financial asset class in the event of a health emergency, making it imperative to opt for a comprehensive health insurance plan.

■ Buy a comprehensive health cover that fulfills your health needs for life: Buy a personal health insurance cover even if you have an employee cover because 'employer provided' health insurance service is becoming expensive and unviable for the employers at large and you should avoid the risk of remaining underinsured in this context at any point of time. Plan for inflation by taking a higher sum insured to protect yourself against increasing hospital costs.

■ Partner with a health insurer you can trust with your family's health: When it comes to health, it's always 'family first' as we tend to prioritise the health of our loved ones over own well-being.

You should opt for an adequate health insurance cover that secures your family, both husband and wife, parents, grandparents, parents-in law, children, grand children, brother, sister, sister-in-law and other members of your extended family.

It is advisable to select an insurer who can establish a direct relationship with you and your family.

■ Take a health promise for yourself and your loved ones: Take a "health promise" for yourself and your loved ones and get support for a change in health management behaviours around you.

■ Last but not the least, enjoying good quality life closely depends upon how healthy, active and energised we feel. Focus on wellness and preventive management to help you to lead healthier, happier and more successful lives.