The birth of a child always brings happiness, hope and expectations into our lives. However, along with the joy of parenthood, you will also have several responsibilities to think about; and allocate finances in preparation for your child’s various milestones. In this process of financial planning, you will be required to think about their possible medical needs as well. Getting your child health insurance cover is a critical part of planning for medical expenses incase of an emergency. Furthermore, procuring insurance cover for your child also means that you can relieve yourself of the personal and financial stress that you may face in the event of a contingency. So let’s have a look at what you should do to get your newborn child covered by your existing health insurance policy. 

• What is the minimum age to avail health insurance?

The first point is that it may not be possible to insure your child immediately after the delivery. This is because insuring neonates comes with a lot of risks. Most companies require the child to be at least 90 days old before you can start the process of adding them to your existing health insurance plan. However this is not a standard and it may be longer for some insurance companies. On the other hand, a few insurance companies do allow you to avail benefits or add-ons under maternity and newborn cover. So find out what the exact terms are from your health insurance provider. 

• When should you begin the application process?

In most cases, you can think about adding your child to your existing plan when you undertake the annual renewal of your policy. You can do this by filling out the particular for and furnishing the necessary documents. However, if your insurer is willing to provide cover during the neonatal stage as well, then in most cases you will have to give them at least a week’s notice. 

• What documents are needed for the application?

When you apply to extend your policy’s cover to your newborn, you will need to provide all the documents pertaining to their birth. This includes the birth certificate, maternity discharge summary card and doctor’s report on any medical conditions present at birth. Additionally, you might also require a photo of your child to avail the cashless card that your insurance company provides. 

• Are there any changes you need to be aware about?

Remember that including your child under your current health insurance policy comes with additional premiums. This will be calculated and communicated to you by your insurance provider. Only once you have made the payment and renewed your policy your newborn will actually be covered by your health insurance. 

Also keep in mind that a floater policy, which extends your coverage to your family, can only be undertaken till your child reaches 21 years. Furthermore the actual cover extended may be different, depending on your insurance provider. Some companies cover only vaccinations, while others cover various congenital disorders as well. Go over the particular conditions of the offer and reasons for exclusion as well, since these can vary between companies. Don’t make a decision without checking all these details with your health insurance provider first.