“Does health insurance cover pregnancy in India?” is a frequently asked question in India. The answer is a big “Yes!” and it has several benefits, some of which we will explain in this article. As we all know, the phase of motherhood is one of the most significant and celebratory events in an Indian household. Expecting a baby paves the way for an exciting and transformative period for the couple. However, it can also mean more expenses, which is why it makes sense to opt for the best maternity cover health insurance plan.
What is the Purpose of Maternity Insurance?
Planning for covering various expenses related to the newborn child and the expecting mother is essential. All expenses related to childbirth including medical treatment and hospitalisation are typitcally covered in maternity insurance. Some maternity plans also cover post-birth complications and even mandatory vaccinations for the newborn. However, this differs from one insurer to the other.
When Should One Take Maternity Insurance?
Opting for a good maternity insurance plan is essential once a couple decides they are ready to start a family. From an insurer perspective, it’s not possible to take pregnancy insurance after getting pregnant as it’s a precedent. The main reason is that these plans only come with a waiting period.
Many couples in India search for maternity insurance coverage with no waiting period. Unfortunately, they are not available. The waiting period varies from 9 months to 4-5 years depending on the insurance company. So, you must take these policies before pregnancy.
What is the Waiting Period mandated in Maternity Insurance?
Opting for a good maternity insurance plan The waiting period differs from one plan to another. Typically, it would be around two to four years for a maternity claim. Few policies extend it up to six years as well.
What Maternity Items are Covered by Health Insurance?
The inclusions of maternity insurance plans are:
30 days pre-hospitalisation and 60 days post-hospitalisation expenses
Give coverage of the cost of abortion in life-threatening situations
Coverage for newborn babies and vaccination
Normal/ C-section surgery expenses
Nursing and ambulance charges
What Maternity Items are not Covered by Health Insurance?
On the other hand, exclusions of pregnancy coverage include:
Certain medications like tonics, vitamins and supplements
Claims raised during the waiting period or after 2 pregnancies
Cost of pre-existing diseases affecting pregnancy, congenital diseases and infertility or artificial pregnancy methods
To conclude, maternity health insurance coverage can provide solid support in the pregnancy phase and it works as a financial backup plan for the couple as they await the most joyous phase of their life. As maternity plans tend to have sub-limits, it is essential that you check this thoroughly before deciding what plan to opt for.
Remember, it is important to read the policy terms and conditions to benefit the most from your maternity insurance plan.
