Maternity cover is not a basic inclusion on most health insurance policies, so it’s important to plan ahead. With this in mind, we asked MARC MELDRUM from Expat Insurance to answer our readers’ common questions about maternity cover.
1. “How much will it cost me to give birth in a private hospital?”
The cost varies between hospitals, as well as by the type of room you choose to stay in (private, semi-private or ward). It also depends on how you would like to give birth – for example, elective caesarean sections are more expensive than natural childbirth. The costs can be anywhere from around HK$70,000 to over HK$200,000.
2. “When should I take out insurance that covers me for maternity?”
It’s important to plan in advance. Medical insurances that cover maternity have a waiting period, which is typically around 10 to 12 months. This means that you won’t be covered during this time, and maternity costs will only be covered after the waiting period has elapsed. Also be aware that not all maternity insurances will cover all childbirths. For example, some insurers do not cover elective caesarean sections or assisted pregnancies, such as IVF.
3. “How much will a typical insurer cover?”
The maternity budget typically covers pre-natal, childbirth and post-natal, but will vary between insurance companies, from as little as HK$50,000 to as much as HK$300,000 (and even to unlimited costs for some emergency caesarean sections).
4. “What coverage is there for when my child is born?”
Most insurers will allow you to add your child to your own plan without any medical underwriting. This is particularly valuable as paediatrician costs at birth and in the hospital can be covered too, as well as many vaccinations.
5. “I’d like to give birth in my home country. Can this be done?”
Yes, you may elect to give birth in any country covered by your plan.
6. “Are there any extra benefits to maternity medical insurance I may not be aware of?”
You would be covered internationally for any illnesses or emergencies that occur outside of your pregnancy. Also, any complications that arise during your pregnancy will be covered, in most insurance plans.
The Expat Insurance approach to maternity insurance
We offer individual plans as well as family and employer plans, for which we would sit down with you on a face-to-face basis to discuss your budget and requirements. Once we’ve agreed on a plan that meets your needs, we will then be available on an ongoing basis to assist you with any ide of your pregnancy. Also, any complications that arise during your pregnancy will be covered, in most insurance plans. The Expat Insurance approach to maternity insurance We offer individual plans as well as family and employer plans, for which we would sit down with you on a face-to-face basis to discuss your budget and requirements. Once we’ve agreed on a plan that meets your needs, we will then be available on an ongoing basis to assist you with any enquiries that you have.
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