Understanding the Importance of Maternity Insurance During and After Pregnancy
The need for individual health insurance plans has significantly increased due to the rising costs of healthcare. However, many individuals overlook the significance of including a maternity insurance plan with their health insurance policies. Maternity insurance can help cover various expenses related to pregnancy and childbirth. Apart from covering hospitalization costs, maternity insurance also offers post-delivery care, which is vital for both the mother and the baby.
To-be parents looking to alleviate the financial burden associated with childbirth can explore the benefits and details of maternity insurance outlined below.
Benefits of Maternity Insurance
Maternity cover can be obtained as a standalone policy or as a rider from most insurance companies. This additional policy provides coverage for both normal and cesarean childbirth.
Some key benefits of maternity insurance include:
1. Coverage for Pre and Post-natal Expenses
A maternity insurance plan typically covers expenses related to pre and post-natal care. Pre-natal expenses encompass tests, medical check-ups, medications, ultrasounds, and other related costs essential for ensuring the safety of the baby before birth. Additionally, most pre-natal benefits cover expenses incurred up to nearly 30 days before the mother’s hospitalization.
In terms of post-natal coverage, the insurance company covers expenses for further treatments, check-ups, and vaccinations for the newborn. Depending on the type of coverage, the costs of hospitalization for the baby after birth may also be included.
Furthermore, post-hospitalization coverage benefits can be utilized for up to 60 days following the discharge of the mother and child.
2. Comprehensive Financial Protection
Given the increasing medical treatment costs nationwide, accessing quality healthcare often entails significant expenses that can pose a substantial financial burden.
Maternity insurance aids in maintaining financial security throughout the pregnancy period and beyond. With coverage for pre and post-natal care, individuals can be assured of complete protection for their child.
3. Peace of Mind
Having maternity insurance not only provides peace of mind to the mother but to the entire family. It shields policyholders from financial distress while ensuring access to quality treatment at reputable hospitals during pregnancy and childbirth.
Inclusions under Maternity Cover
Health insurance with maternity cover typically includes:
- Pre and post-hospitalization expenses
- Expenses related to pregnancy termination in life-threatening situations
- Coverage for the newborn for up to 90 days after birth
- Coverage for vaccinations
Exclusions under Maternity Insurance
It is crucial to be aware of expenses not covered by maternity insurance, such as:
- Cost of non-pregnancy or non-childbirth-related medications
- Medication costs for pre-existing conditions discovered during pregnancy
- Congenital diseases
- Infertility treatment expenses
- Costs of tonics, vitamins, or supplements
- Unspecified ectopic pregnancy expenses
- Claims made during the waiting period
Opting for maternity cover with a cashless claim facility is advisable to streamline the hospitalization process, as the insurer directly settles the bills.
Individuals without existing health insurance covering maternity benefits can easily purchase one through leading online platforms. By evaluating their needs, they can select a suitable policy that fits their requirements.
Maternity insurance extends coverage to both mother and baby during and after hospitalization, alleviating the financial strain on families. It’s important to review the terms and conditions of different insurance providers regarding maternity policies to make an informed decision before purchasing.
