The birth of a baby is a momentous occasion for any family, symbolising hope, joy, and new beginnings. However, this significant milestone also brings a set of responsibilities, particularly concerning the baby’s health and well-being. With the rising costs of healthcare in India, new born baby health insurance has become indispensable. This detailed guide aims to help parents understand the nuances of health insurance for new borns, its benefits, and how to choose the best policy tailored to their needs.
New born baby health insurance is a specialised coverage designed to address the unique healthcare needs of infants and their mothers during the early stages of life. It typically forms part of a maternity insurance plan or a family floater health policy and provides financial support for medical expenses related to:
Delivery and hospitalisation.
NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) costs for premature or ill babies.
Vaccinations and routine check-ups.
Surgeries and critical treatments.
This type of insurance provides peace of mind to parents, ensuring their baby receives the best medical care without worrying about financial burdens.
1. Family Floater Health Insurance
This plan covers the entire family, including the new born. It is cost-effective and provides a shared sum insured, which can be utilised by any family member.
2. Maternity Insurance with New born Cover
These plans provide coverage for delivery-related expenses and extend benefits to the new born. Typically, the new born is covered for up to 90 days after birth, after which they can be added to a family floater plan.
3. Individual Child Health Plans
Tailored plans designed specifically for children. They offer dedicated coverage for the child and focus on their healthcare needs.
4. Critical Illness Plans
For babies diagnosed with serious medical conditions at birth, these plans provide financial support for treatment and care.
Take a look at the table below, which features maternity health insurance plans that include coverage for new born babies.
Plans Name |
Sum Insured |
New Born Coverage |
|
Aditya Birla Activ Health Platinum- Enhanced Plan |
Rs 2 lakh- Rs 2 crore |
Included |
|
Bajaj Allianz Health Guard Gold Family Floater Health Insurance Policy |
Rs 3 lakh- Rs 50 lakh |
Up to 90 days |
|
Care Health Joy Health Insurance Plan |
Rs 3 lakh- Rs 5 lakh |
Day 1- 90 days |
|
Digit Health Insurance with Maternity Cover |
Rs 2 lakh- Rs 25 lakh |
Day 1- 90 days |
|
HDFC ERGO Easy Health Family Plan |
Rs 2 lakh- Rs 50 lakh |
Included |
|
ICICI Lombard Elevate Plan |
Rs 5 lakh- Unlimited |
Included |
|
Magma HDI OneHealth Insurance Plan |
Rs 2 lakh- Rs 3 crore |
Up to 90 days |
|
Manipal Cigna ProHealth Preferred Plan |
Rs 15 lakh- Rs 50 lakh |
Included |
|
New India Assurance Mediclaim Policy |
Up to Rs 15 lakh |
Included |
|
Niva Bupa Heartbeat Family Floater Plan |
5 lakh-1 crore |
From Day 1 |
Disclaimer: OkBima does not promote, rate, or favour any specific insurer or insurance product. The plans mentioned here are offered by OkBima's insurance partners. For a complete list of insurers in India, please visit the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) website at www.irdai.gov.in.
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1. Rising Healthcare Costs
The cost of childbirth, pediatric consultations, vaccinations, and treatments for common illnesses can add up quickly. Health insurance for new born baby ensures that families are financially prepared for these expenses.
2. Vulnerability to Illnesses
New borns have underdeveloped immune systems, making them more susceptible to infections and health issues. Insurance provides access to quality healthcare during these critical times.
3. Protection Against Unforeseen Complications
Medical emergencies like jaundice, respiratory distress, or congenital conditions require immediate and specialised care. Insurance ensures that parents can access top-notch facilities without delay.
4. Financial Security
With insurance in place, parents can allocate funds towards their child’s growth and development instead of worrying about medical bills.
5. Tax Benefits
Premiums paid towards health insurance policies are eligible for tax deductions under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act, offering additional financial relief.
When evaluating the best insurance policy for new born baby in India, consider the following features:
1. Hospitalisation Coverage
Comprehensive coverage for pre- and post-hospitalisation expenses, room rent, and ICU charges.
2. Vaccination Coverage
Covers mandatory vaccinations such as BCG, Hepatitis B, Polio, and more, which can be a significant expense in the first year.
3. Maternity and Delivery Costs
Expenses related to normal or cesarean delivery, including hospital stay and delivery charges for the mother.
4. Coverage for Critical Conditions
Includes treatment for neonatal conditions like jaundice, respiratory issues, and congenital anomalies.
5. Network Hospitals
Cashless treatment in a wide range of network hospitals eliminates the need for upfront payments.
6. Add-On Benefits
Options to include riders for accidental coverage, annual health check-ups, or enhanced coverage limits.
The following expenses are generally covered:
Pre-Natal and Post-Natal Expenses: Covers expenses incurred before and after delivery, ensuring comprehensive care for both the mother and baby.
Vaccinations: Routine immunisations as per government guidelines.
NICU Expenses: Specialised care for preterm babies or those requiring neonatal intensive care.
Congenital Anomalies: Treatment for birth defects diagnosed in the baby.
Surgeries: Coverage for any surgical interventions required during infancy.
While policies are comprehensive, certain exclusions apply:
Pre-existing medical conditions of the baby.
Congenital anomalies are not covered under the policy.
Costs for optional or experimental treatments.
Vaccinations are not included in the prescribed schedule.
Parents must read the policy document carefully to understand these exclusions and plan accordingly.
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1. Peace of Mind for Parents
Knowing that your baby’s healthcare is covered allows parents to focus on nurturing their child.
2. Financial Preparedness
Reduces the financial strain associated with unexpected medical emergencies or routine healthcare costs.
3. Access to Quality Care
Ensures access to top hospitals and specialists without worrying about the cost.
4. Preventive Care
Supports regular vaccinations and check-ups, ensuring the child’s healthy development.
5. Customisation Options
Many insurers allow customisation of plans to include riders or additional coverage tailored to your baby’s needs.
Selecting the right insurance plan requires careful consideration. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
Research and Compare: Evaluate multiple plans for their features, benefits, and exclusions.
Understand Coverage: Opt for a plan that covers essential needs like vaccinations, NICU expenses, and critical conditions.
Check Network Hospitals: Ensure your preferred hospitals are part of the insurer’s network for cashless benefits.
Premium vs. Benefits: Balance affordability with comprehensive coverage.
Read Reviews and Ratings: Understand the insurer’s reputation, claim settlement ratio, and customer service quality.
Adding a new born to your existing policy is usually straightforward:
Notify your insurer within the specified timeframe (often 30-90 days after birth).
Submit the baby’s birth certificate and required medical documents.
Pay any additional premium to update the policy.
Once processed, the new born will be included in the family floater or maternity insurance plan.
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Parenthood is a journey filled with joy and challenges. By securing your new born’s health through insurance, you are taking a proactive step towards ensuring their bright future. Remember to evaluate your family’s needs, research policies thoroughly, and choose the one that offers the best protection for your precious little one.
With new born baby health insurance, you’re not just safeguarding against financial risks but investing in your child’s healthy and happy life.