If you are expecting a child then it is only natural that you will start thinking about your baby’s health right from the moment of conception. It is also natural to be concerned about healthcare before, during and after the birth of your baby. These are the kind of healthcare needs you need to consider before signing up to a scheme like Hosmed medical aid or similar. If you know that at some time in the not to distant future you will be looking to start a family then you would be wise to ensure that your medical aid provider actually covers pregnancy and newborn health care.
Before The Birth
Prior to actually giving birth, you will need appropriate prenatal care including obstetrician visits, ultrasound scans and perhaps even prenatal vitamins. You will need to check with your medical aid provider to ensure that you are covered for these treatments as not all schemes will. If we take Hosmed medical aid as an example, members are limited to two ultrasound scans per pregnancy although they will cover all treatments and consultations up to the agreed cover limit. This applies to all three levels of cover offered by Hosmed medical aid, but other schemes may only offer cover on certain plans or may require an additional premium to be paid.
During The Birth
If your medical aid provider covers prenatal care then it is usually the case that they will also cover your hospital expenses and doctor’s fees during the birth itself. It is usually for even caesarean sections to be covered as long as they are not elective. It is important to be aware that you may need to choose a hospital from an approved list provided by your medical aid scheme and if your gynaecologist’s rates are above the usual tariff rates you will be liable to pay the excess.
After The Birth
You will need to register your new baby as an additional member/ dependent on your medical aid program. However, this is a hectic time for your family and the majority of medical aid schemes will cover newborns for up to 30 days following birth. Cover should include any necessary ICU treatments if the child is in difficulty. However, a prolonged hospital stay for the mother may not be covered.
It is fairly easy to add your new baby to your medical aid scheme providing that your name is on their birth certificate. The majority of schemes will offer a family plan for your convenience. In fact, with Hosmed medical aid you only have to pay for your first 3 children, so larger families can enjoy free cover for any additional children that they might have.
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