Understanding Maternity Scans as Part of Family Health Cover

Maternity care is a key concern for many South African families, especially when planning or expecting a new baby. Regular scans-such as ultrasound imaging in the first, second, and third trimesters-help monitor pregnancy development and detect any possible concerns early on. Having the right medical cover ensures that families can access private healthcare facilities, high-quality imaging, and prompt results without bearing the full financial burden.

Why Do Families Need Maternity Scans?

• To verify fetal development and screen for anomalies at various pregnancy stages
• To provide peace of mind with professional oversight throughout pregnancy
• To access specialist advice should the need arise based on scan outcomes

How Health Cover Works for Maternity Scans

Medical insurance plans with maternity benefits generally include cover for clinically necessary in-hospital scans (such as during admission for complications), as well as defined outpatient scans, depending on the plan. Some plans distinguish between standard day-to-day benefits and hospital-based benefits, impacting where and when scans are fully covered. Reviewing specific policy terms is important to understand how different types of scans are included in your plan.

Types of Maternity Scans and Their Role

• Early Pregnancy Scans: Confirming pregnancy viability and detecting multiple pregnancies
• Anomaly Scans: Detailed mid-pregnancy assessments for fetal development
• Growth Scans: Monitoring baby's growth and fluid levels in later stages

Comparing Health Cover Options for Families

Affinity Health offers a range of affordable plans that include maternity benefits designed for all stages of life. Young couples, first-time parents, and families may benefit from the Combined Plan, which merges day-to-day and hospital benefits for broader protection. Exploring plan comparisons with Innovator Range may also help if you’re seeking enhanced features for growing families.

*Exact inclusions, waiting periods, and benefit limits are detailed in each plan document.

Assessing Cost and Access for South African Families

Private maternity scans in South Africa can cost between R500 and R2,000 per visit, depending on the scan type and provider. While costs vary, families with health cover may pay significantly less out-of-pocket by claiming for scans under their plan’s benefits, provided the scans are authorised and meet clinical criteria.

Plan Options and Premiums

• Standard Range Combined Plan offers family cover from R1,604 per main member and R924 per child per month.
• Junior Cover provides pregnancy-related support and infant care, ideal for families planning ahead (more on Junior Cover).
• Innovator Range supports advanced family needs with six combination options for those seeking additional flexibility.

You can review detailed pricing for all plans on the Affinity Health rates page.

Selecting the Most Suitable Cover for Your Family

1. Identify what types of scans your family will need during pregnancy.
2. Compare plan benefit charts for inclusion of maternity-specific benefits, waiting periods, and authorisation steps.
3. Factor in other needs (such as GP visits or chronic medicine) so your chosen plan works for your whole family.

How to Use Provider Networks for Maternity Care

Once you have chosen your plan, use the extensive provider directories to locate approved healthcare professionals and providers. For day-to-day scan appointments, consult the provider search tool. For hospital admissions requiring in-patient scans, use the hospital directory to confirm access at private facilities nationwide.

Building Lasting Health for Growing Families

Regular maternity scans are part of a holistic healthcare journey, offering peace of mind and medical support when it matters most. Budget-friendly, reliable cover through Affinity Health enables parents to focus on wellbeing while navigating the joys and challenges of parenthood.

Sources

• Affinity Health - Combined Plan Overview
• Affinity Health - Plan Pricing and Benefits
• What You Need to Know About Maternity Cover in South Africa (ENCA)
• Statistics South Africa - Births and Health
• HealthyChildren.org - Ultrasound Examinations