One of the most common questions we get asked is from expectant mothers, who don’t have medical aid and want to know if they can still receive cover. Unfortunately, pregnancy is considered “a medical condition”, and as such by definition is subject to waiting periods when you join/change medical aid schemes.
Pregnant and with a medical aid Waiting Period?
If you have not had medical aid for more than 90 days and are pregnant, a scheme can impose a 12 month waiting period on your pregnancy when you join, meaning that it will not cover any costs related to the pregnancy for 12 months from the time of your application.
Scheme’s discretion
Note that it is really up to the scheme whether it imposes a waiting period or not, and for which condition. Some schemes (usually restricted schemes that you can only belong to via your employer) do not impose any waiting periods. If you are eligible for any restricted scheme, speak to them about waiting periods and pregnancy.
You should join a medical aid anyway
Even if you are unable to find a scheme that will not impose a waiting period for your pregnancy, you should still join a medical aid as soon as you find out you are pregnant. Your newborn will not have a waiting period imposed upon birth, and if he/she needs urgent medical attention the scheme will then pay for it regardless of your waiting period.
Your newborn baby receives immediate cover on birth, even if you have a waiting period!
Important!
Under no circumstances should you not disclose your pregnancy when applying for a medical scheme. This will most likely be considered “material non-disclosure” and your membership may be terminated. This could obviously severely affect your and your baby’s cover.
