Adding On Pregnancy Coverage to Existing Health Plan

Posted in Health Insurance , Maternity Health Insurance

February 11th, 2009

If you are planning on having a child, it is best to add on pregnancy coverage to your existing health plan before you are actually pregnant. Some health plans may also require you to purchase a pregnancy rider, as they may not cover your pregnancy-related costs.

If you already have an existing health plan, the first thing to do before getting pregnant, is discuss your options with your insurance provider. Each health care provider offers different conditions and terms to their maternity health care plans. As a consumer, you are set to take advantage of the options before you get pregnant.

Even if you are in good health and have had the same policy for years, it may take 6-12 months for the maternity rider to take effect. Additionally, health care coverage is mandated by state. The degree and type of maternity coverage from your health care provider may be limited.

Unfortunately, many insurers providing individual coverage consider pregnancy a pre-existing condition. If you are pregnant and try to add on a maternity rider to your existing health plan coverage, you may be denied coverage and be forced to purchase a separate maternity health plan.