Dr. Bhabatosh Mishra -Director – Claims, Underwriting & Product

Niva Bupa Health Insurance Company Limited

Selecting the right health insurance plan that adequately covers maternity expenses is a crucial decision for couples. The journey towards parenthood comes with its own set of joys and challenges, and having a well-thought-out maternity cover can significantly ease the financial burden associated with prenatal, delivery, and post-natal care.

When it comes to maternity cover, planning and starting early is the key. Since all maternity covers come with a pre-defined waiting period, the decision to purchase the health insurance plan with the right maternity plan should go hand-in-hand with the family planning of the couple to ensure that maternity cover is available when they need it.

One must keep these points in mind while deciding on your maternity cover:

Coverage for alternative reproductive treatments – Given our current lifestyle and stress, an increasing percentage of couples nowadays need to go for alternative reproductive treatments such as IVF, Surrogacy, etc. which is often a very costly proposition. Having a health insurance plan that covers these alternative reproductive treatments as well would save couples from this unexpected and unplanned expense.

Coverage for surrogacy and adoption – Many couples have started opting for surrogacy and adoption. While most maternity cover only pays for deliveries, a maternity cover which also covers expenses for surrogacy and adoption would be a useful benefit to have.

Comprehensive Maternity Cover – Most maternity health insurance plans only cover deliveries.  One should ensure that the plan covers for prenatal check-ups, hospitalization and delivery costs. Look for plans that go beyond the basics and provide a holistic approach to maternity healthcare.

Maternity Cover over and above the Sum Insured – While in most health insurance plans in the market which provide maternity cover, it is include in the overall sum insured there are some plans available in the market like the recently launched Niva Bupa’s Aspire plan in which the maternity cover is over and above the overall sum insured.

Check if Maternity clinics and hospitals are part of your insurer’s Network Hospitals – Look for health insurance plans that have tie-ups with reputable hospitals and maternity clinics. Having access to a network of hospitals can streamline the admission process and provide a more comfortable experience during pregnancy and childbirth.

Waiting Period and Policy Terms – Be mindful of the waiting periods and policy terms associated with maternity coverage. All plans have waiting periods before one can avail maternity benefits. Some plans have specific terms related to the number of pregnancies that can be covered.

Coverage for new-born – Some health insurance plans offer coverage for new-borns immediately after birth. Check if your policy includes this feature, as it can be valuable in covering initial medical expenses for your baby.

Easy to understand policy wordings- Look for maternity covers with transparent policy terms, clearly outlining waiting periods, policy durations, and any specific conditions related to maternity benefits. The best plans are upfront about their terms, helping you make decisions with confidence.

Additional Benefits - Some maternity covers come with added benefits such as postnatal support, new-born care, and wellness programs. Explore plans that offer these additional perks, enhancing the overall value of your maternity cover.

Exclusions & Limitations - Thoroughly review the exclusions and limitations of each maternity cover plan. Familiarize yourself with any specific conditions or situations that may not be covered by the policy. This knowledge ensures that you are aware of the extent of your coverage and can plan accordingly.

Selecting the right maternity cover involves careful consideration of waiting periods, coverage limits, network hospitals, and additional benefits. By planning ahead and thoroughly reviewing policy details, you can secure a health insurance plan that provides comprehensive coverage during the exciting journey of pregnancy and beyond. Remember, the right maternity cover not only safeguards your financial well-being but also ensures a smooth and worry-free pregnancy experience.