Parents need to plan for the birth of a child in advance, and your healthcare policy must cover all expenses relating to the medical needs of the infant child and mom-to-be. Parents must avoid health insurance without maternity coverage and opt for a policy that provides comprehensive maternity health coverage.
Does health insurance come with maternity cover?
Maternity coverage is often an add-on benefit of a health insurance policy. Some insurance companies may not offer maternity coverage for women who fall under the exclusion criteria. It is also important to know that there is always a waiting period that differs between insurers; it is usually between 9 months and 6 years. A policyholder cannot claim any maternity benefits before completing the waiting period. Infertility treatments and congenital disorders are usually exempt from coverage. Typically, women aged between 18 and 45 are covered by maternity insurance plans.
Pros of Opting for Maternity Cover in Health Insurance
The following factors will establish why you should opt for maternity coverage in health insurance:
- Access to the Best Medical Facilities
The main benefit of maternity coverage in health insurance is access to medical facilities, including the best hospitals that come under the insurer’s network.
- Access to the Best Skilled Gynaecologists
With maternity coverage, you can get access to the best gynaecologists and other staff with adequate maternity care experience. Also, you can avail of quality healthcare with minimal out-of-pocket expenses.
You can avail yourself of a tax rebate for premiums paid for your healthcare plan, offering maternity coverage under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act of 1961.
- It Minimises Birth Related Hospitalisation Charges
Charges, including room rent and hospitalisation, can add up quickly, but such expenses will be covered with maternity coverage. You will also receive coverage for expenses incurred 30 days prior to hospitalisation and 60 days post-hospitalisation in case of any childbirth-related complications.
Conclusion
Opting for health insurance without maternity coverage is risky because of the inherent costs involved in availing quality healthcare. Prior to zeroing in on a policy, consider the waiting period to claim your maternity coverage benefits, policy exclusions and limitations, and the requirements you must meet before making a final decision on the health insurance coverage.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.