Overview
IVF or In Vitro Fertilisation is a beacon of hope for many couples struggling with infertility, but paying for it can burn a hole in the pocket for many. The treatment itself is quite expensive. But fortunately, in recent years, some insurers have started offering IVF insurance coverage, either partially or fully. Though these insurances may require some add-ons or specialised plans, they can be a great help. So let’s explore which insurance policy covers IVF in India, how to get it, and how much an IVF cycle costs without insurance.
Does Health Insurance Cover IVF In India?
A standard health insurance generally does not cover the cost of IVF in India, as IVF is considered an elective rather than an essential medical procedure. But, understanding the growing demand, health insurers are also adapting to this new normal. Many are offering IVF insurance coverage through specialised IVF health insurance schemes, add-ons on maternity plans, etc. These plans can be partial or full, but surely they can bring great relief to your pocket when undergoing such a treatment.
Now, let’s understand the scenario and graph of health insurance cover for IVF in India:
- Exclusions in traditional policies: Most of the standard health policies do not cover ART (IVF and IUI) treatment costs.
- Newer Plans with fertility/maternity add-ons: Understanding the need and demand of many couples, many insurers are making changes to their health insurance coverage plans.
- Limitations in IVF coverage scope: Despite the new adaptable health plans, these may be limited to only one cycle, procedure, or to specific hospitals.
- Variation across insurers: Different policies come with different rules, waiting periods, or other limits.
How to Get IVF Covered by Insurance?
Securing an IVF insurance coverage is not an easy task in India; you need to understand every single guideline of your health insurance. As most of the standard health insurances do not cover IVF, fertility add-ons and special plans are the only options left, that too, if available. Keep this list of considerations on how to get IVF covered by insurance and make informed decisions:
- Choose health policies that offer a fertility add-on option as part of the coverage.
- Understand how much time you will need to wait to make fertility treatment-related claims; for this, confirm with your insurer.
- Confirm what is covered under the policy. Some insurance schemes cover only specific procedures or hospitalisation charges, but not the fees for medication or diagnostic tests.
- Always read the long list of guidelines and fine print to understand what is included and what is not.
Cost Of IVF Without Insurance In India
As mentioned earlier, IVF is one of the most expensive medical procedures in India, and affording one without IVF insurance coverage can be overwhelming. Some factors, such as location, additional procedures, medications, etc, can add to the total cost as well, making these insurances even more valuable. Let’s understand how the overall cost of IVF usually breaks down:
1. Average cycle cost range:
Although the cost of an average cycle can vary from city to city and person to person.
2. Medications and Test Prices:
The IVF procedure requires various tests (diagnostics and ultrasounds) and medications (hormonal injections) that are an important component of IVF costs.
3. Financial strain of multiple cycles:
Not all the IVF cycles are successful; some may fail. In such cases, the doctor may suggest repeating the cycle, which might add to the overall IVF cost.
4. How Insurance Reduces Financial Burden:
Considering all the possibilities of an IVF cycle, IVF insurance coverage can reduce your financial burden significantly.
Conclusion
Lastly, it can be said that though IVF brings hope to countless couples aspiring to start a family, its high costs can be quite overwhelming for many. Besides that, infertility treatments are usually not covered by most conventional health insurance policies in India. Fortunately, insurers are gradually moving towards IVF coverage packages in the form of fertility add-ons and niche plans. The cost of IVF cycles, medications, and hospitalisations can be significantly reduced by even partial insurance. Parenthood is possible, and with the right backing, the process can turn out to be affordable and reassuring.
Common Questions Asked
Are all insurance companies in India covering IVF?
No, a majority of the traditional insurance companies do not pay for IVF expenses. But now some companies pay for it through maternity or fertility add-ons; most traditional medical plans have a rider that does not include infertility treatments.
Which insurance company is best for IVF coverage?
The ‘best’ policy is dependent on your requirements. Fertility riders provide some IVF benefits, yet terms, maximums, and waiting periods vary among insurers.
Can an existing policy be enhanced with IVF coverage?
Yes, in certain cases. Certain insurers allow policyholders to include fertility or maternity riders at renewal, but ensure to confirm eligibility and additional premium requirements.
How does a cashless facility or reimbursement operate?
If IVF is included, the insurance company can offer either reimbursement (where you pay up front and get paid back later) or cashless treatment at network hospitals. Always check approved hospitals and treatment ceilings in advance.
Does group/corporate policy include IVF?
Some progressive employers offer IVF medical insurance under group policies, but not in general.