If you’re planning on getting pregnant, especially if it’s for the first time, knowing all about pregnancy cover is essential. Whether you want the option to choose your own doctor, have your own private room or cover for birthing classes, it’s important to choose the right health insurance policy for you and your family.
When should you get cover?
Get cover early. Most health insurance policies have a 12-month waiting period for pregnancy-related issues. As a result, you have to get health insurance at least three months before you even start trying for a baby to have cover for obstetrics.
What benefits can you receive from having private health cover?
During the many stages of your pregnancy, you’ll encounter a variety of costs. Private hospital cover can help you with some of these out-of-pocket costs:
- Antenatal care. If your policy covers antenatal care, you could be covered for birthing classes. Taking advantage of this could be extremely beneficial since these classes can teach you anything from preparing for labour to breastfeeding techniques.
- Private health cover gives you the ability to choose your own doctor and hospital. Depending on which policy you choose, you could even be eligible for a private room.
- Postnatal care. Once you’ve had your baby, adding your child to your policy is easy. You should be able to call your health fund, provide your newborn’s name and have them added.
What services aren’t included in private health insurance cover?
Despite having many benefits, private health insurance won’t cover everything. Most of the time, you will still have to pay for the following out-of-pocket:
- Visiting your doctor (GP)
- Having ultrasounds
- Getting blood tests
- Visiting your obstetrician for check-ups
Does private health insurance cover IVF?
If assisted reproductive services are important to you, make sure to check if your policy can cover some of the costs included. Many health insurance providers can assist with IVF treatment and gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT).
Your policy might also provide cover for services that require you to be hospitalised. For instance, you’ll be covered for the collection of eggs and the transfer of embryos.
Public or private?
The choice between public or private can be difficult to make and it’s important to weigh the pros and cons. Even though 73% of Australians choose to go the public route, each individual will have different needs.
With a private hospital, you’ll be able to choose your doctor, choose your hospital, have a private room and not be rushed. These benefits could definitely save you a lot of stress, however, you’ll still have to pay for some expenses out-of-pocket and your care may be limited to network hospitals.
On the other hand, with a public hospital, you’ll have no out-of-pocket costs for childbirth and either free or subsidised antenatal. The pitfalls however include shared accommodation, no choice in your obstetrician and shorter hospital stays.
Ultimately, every person has different priorities in terms of the features they want. It’s completely your decision whether or not you decide to take out private health insurance but if you do, make sure you’re getting the best value for money. Jump online and compare the policies with the benefits you need. Good luck!
