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MATERNITY COVERAGE

- KARTHIK JEROME

Maternity-related hospitalisation costs have increased significantly, especially in metro cities. One way to manage these expenses is by purchasing maternity coverage under a health insurance policy. Policybazaar.com has recorded a 450 per cent year-on-year increase in the purchase of maternity covers on its platform.

High treatment costs

Maternity-related expenses can be substantial. “In a private hospital in a metro, a normal delivery would cost around ₹50,000 to ₹1.5 lakh. A C-section (caesarean section) would cost ₹1.2 lakh to ₹2.5 lakh, depending on the hospital room chosen, duration of stay, and complications,” says Bhabatosh Mishra, director and chief operating officer, Niva Bupa Health Insurance. If complications arise or if the newborn requires admission into the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), the bill could rise sharply.

Base policy or add-on

Maternity benefits may be included within the base health insurance policy or could be offered as an add-on. “The rider option allows flexibility: Those not planning a family can avoid the extra premium, while those planning one can enhance their coverage,” says Vineet Gupta, head - product development, Manipal-Cigna Health Insurance.

What is covered