FEELING THE PINCH

■ Consumables usually not covered in health insurance

■ It is therefore an out-of-pocket expense for policyholders

■ From low single digits, it has moved up to as high as 20-30%

■ Much of it is because of administrative and housekeeping expenses

■ Insurers are coming up with riders to cover such costs

■ Experts say such covers work well for all stakeholders