Medical costs during pregnancy and delivery have increased. From regular check-ups to hospitalisation and post-delivery care, expenses can add up quickly. A maternity plan helps cover these costs, making the experience less stressful. That’s why new parents should review health insurance plans that include maternity coverage before planning a family. Here’s a rundown on why a maternity insurance policy matters for families planning to welcome a newborn.
What is a Maternity Insurance Policy?
A maternity insurance policy helps cover healthcare expenses during pregnancy, childbirth, and postnatal care. It also covers check-in baggage/luggage, medical tests, doctor consultations, and hospital stays. Many parents obtain maternity coverage as a standard feature or as an added benefit to their health insurance plans.
Core Benefits of Maternity Cover
This section explains why maternity coverage is an essential part of health insurance for families.
- Prenatal and Postnatal Care
The policy covers visits to the doctor, scans, and medications before and after the baby is born. - Hospitalisation and Delivery Charges
It includes costs for both normal and cesarean deliveries, helping families stay within budget. - Check-in Baggage/Luggage Coverage
If a hospital stay requires travel, some policies offer benefits for loss of baggage or luggage. - Newborn Baby Cover
Many plans provide care for the newborn, including hospitalisation and first vaccinations for up to 90 days after birth.
How Maternity Cover Works in Health Insurance Plans
Maternity benefits are often part of broader health insurance plans. Parents can purchase them early and wait for the benefit to take effect.
- Waiting Period
Most plans have a waiting period of 2 to 6 years before maternity benefits can be used. This means you should plan early. - Coverage for Multiple Births
Some plans allow benefits for more than one delivery, often up to two children. - Additional Treatments
Some policies may also support assisted reproductive treatments like IVF, depending on the policy terms.
Choosing the Right Policy
Picking the right maternity insurance policy depends on your current health needs and financial plans. Here’s what to look for:
- Coverage Amount
Ensure the sum insured is enough to handle hospital expenses in your area. - Waiting Period Terms
Look for a plan with a shorter waiting period if you plan to start a family soon. - Sub-limits
Many plans limit how much you can claim for delivery or baby care. Review these before purchasing. - Hospital Network
Cashless treatment is only available in listed hospitals. Select a provider with a large network in your area.
Claim Process
Filing a claim under a maternity insurance policy is easy if you follow the steps carefully.
- Before Admission
Inform the insurer in advance. The hospital can send the required papers to get pre-authorisation. - During the Stay
For cashless claims, the hospital sends bills and records directly to the insurer. - Post-Discharge
If you visit a non-network hospital, you can still be reimbursed. You’ll need to submit original bills and discharge summaries.
Tax Benefits
Premiums paid for a maternity insurance policy, when part of approved health insurance plans, may be eligible for tax deductions under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act. This lowers your taxable income and saves money in the long run.
When to Buy Maternity Cover
The ideal time to buy maternity coverage is before you plan to have a baby. Since waiting periods apply, early planning ensures you can use the benefits when you need them. Buying during pregnancy won’t work, as most policies won’t allow claims to be made immediately.
Common Questions
Q: Does the policy cover both the mother and child?
Yes. Most policies cover the newborn for hospital stays and first-year vaccinations.
Q: Can parents claim for IVF or surrogacy?
A few insurers allow coverage for fertility treatments. Always check the brochure.
Q: Is the cover valid for two deliveries?
Some maternity insurance policies cover up to two deliveries. Review the policy document to confirm.
Conclusion
A maternity insurance policy plays a crucial role in alleviating financial stress during pregnancy and childbirth. It covers a range of expenses, including delivery, newborn care, and postnatal treatment. When paired with the right health insurance plans, it offers complete support for both mother and baby. New parents should carefully review coverage limits, waiting periods, and claim processes. Planning early helps ensure benefits are available when needed, allowing families to focus on care and bonding rather than costs.
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