Maternity insurance helps cover the high expenses related to pregnancy and childbirth. It includes expenses like hospitalization, delivery charges, prenatal and postnatal care, and newborn medical care. However, not all expenses are covered. Understanding what is included and excluded in your policy can help you plan better for a stress-free pregnancy.
What are the inclusions of Pregnancy Insurance?
Maternity insurance covers a wide range of pregnancy-related expenses, including:
●Delivery Expenses
This covers hospital charges, doctor fees, anaesthesia, and medical procedures for both normal and C-section deliveries. Some policies also cover delivery-related complications, ensuring financial security during childbirth.
●Pre and Post-Natal Care
Routine check-ups, ultrasounds, medications, and follow-up visits after delivery are covered under post-natal care. This coverage ensures both the mother and baby receive the necessary medical attention before and after childbirth.
●New-born Baby Cover
Pays for medical expenses of the newborn, usually for the first 90 days. It may include vaccinations, neonatal intensive care (NICU) costs, and treatment for congenital conditions diagnosed at birth.
●Hospitalisation Costs
Covers room rent, ICU charges, doctor consultations, nursing care, and medical procedures during pregnancy-related hospital stays. It ensures financial support for any complications requiring extended hospitalisation.
●Ambulance Charges
You can also get coverage for emergency transportation to the hospital in case of labour complications or sudden medical emergencies. This can ensure timely medical intervention without additional financial burden.
What are the Exclusions of Pregnancy Insurance?
Some expenses are not covered under maternity insurance, such as:
●Waiting Period: Most policies have a waiting period ranging from 9 months to 6 years before coverage starts. Thus, medical expenses may not be covered during this time.
●Pre-existing Conditions: Pregnancy-related complications due to pre-existing illnesses may not be covered.
●Routine Check-ups and Supplements: Regular doctor visits, vitamins, and supplements are generally excluded.
●Infertility Treatments: Costs related to IVF and other infertility treatments are not covered.
●Stem Cell Preservation: Storing stem cells for future use is usually excluded.
●Ectopic Pregnancy: Treatment for an ectopic pregnancy may be covered under a general health plan but not under maternity benefits.
Knowing these exclusions can help you to avoid unexpected medical costs during pregnancy.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Maternity Plan with Maternity Benefits
Before choosing a maternity plan, you must keep these factors in mind:
●Waiting Period
Most maternity insurance plans have a waiting period ranging from 9 months to 6 years. Choose a policy that fits your family planning timeline.
●Coverage Limits
Many plans have sub-limits on delivery charges, new-born care, and hospitalisation. Check these limits to ensure sufficient coverage for all maternity-related expenses.
●Network Hospitals
Opt for an insurer with an extensive network of hospitals, especially one that includes your preferred hospital, for hassle-free cashless treatment during delivery.
●Premium Costs
Compare different plans to find one that provides the best coverage at an affordable premium. Ensure the plan balances costs and benefits effectively.
●Extra Benefits
Some policies offer added benefits like new-born vaccinations, ambulance services, and congenital disease coverage. Check these features for better financial protection.
Maternity insurance can ease financial stress during pregnancy, but it is important to understand what is and is not covered. Carefully compare policies to find one that meets your needs and ensures a smooth experience during this special time.
Related Health Insurance Products
Wellness Benefits by Health Insurance
/health-insurance/wellness-benefits-by-health-insurance-plans/
Inclusion and Exclusion in Insurance
/health-insurance/health-insurance-coverage-inclusions-and-exclusions/
Insurance for Psychological Disorder
/health-insurance/health-insurance-for-psychological-disorder/
Ophthalmic Treatment in Insurance
/health-insurance/health-insurance-for-ophthalmic-treatment/
Insurance for Vector Borne Diseases
/health-insurance/health-insurance-for-vector-borne-diseases/
Insurance Coverage Needs in India
/health-insurance/health-insurance-coverage-do-you-need-in-india/
No-claim Bonus in Insurance
/health-insurance/no-claim-bonus-ncb-in-health-insurance/
Health Care Cost in India
/health-insurance/health-care-cost-in-india/
Insurance for Paralysis Treatment
/health-insurance/health-insurance-for-paralysis-treatment-in-india/
Liver Transplant Surgery
/health-insurance/liver-transplant-surgery/
Health Transplant Surgery
/health-insurance/heart-transplant-surgery/
Insurance for Fatty Liver
/health-insurance/health-insurance-for-fatty-liver/
Dental Insurance
/dental-insurance/
2 Lakh Health Insurance
/health-insurance/2-lakh-health-insurance/
50 Lakh Health Insurance
/health-insurance/50-lakh-health-insurance/
25 Lakh Health Insurance
/health-insurance/25-lakh-health-insurance/