Why Are Maternity Scans So Important?

Maternity scans are an essential part of prenatal care, helping to ensure both mother and baby remain healthy throughout pregnancy. From confirming early development to screening for complications, ultrasound scans offer crucial medical insights at every stage. For families living in Sandton, the cost and accessibility of these scans can be challenging without the right health cover.

Key Types of Maternity Scans

• First-trimester viability scans (usually at 6-9 weeks)
• Nuchal translucency/early anomaly scan (11-14 weeks)
• Detailed anatomy scan (18-22 weeks)
• Growth and wellbeing scans (later trimesters as indicated)

South African obstetric guidelines recommend at least two major scans during pregnancy, but many parents are advised additional assessments if medically required. Paying privately, each scan can range from R500 to R1,500 or more, making adequate health insurance an important consideration for anyone planning a family in Sandton.

How Health Insurance Helps Cover the Costs

Maternity scans are commonly covered by health insurance when part of hospitalisation or when linked to broader pregnancy care benefits. Cover typically applies if the scans are requested by a Healthcare Practitioner for medical reasons. The reimbursement level and total annual benefit depends on your selected plan option.

Coverage at a Glance

*Always refer to the most recent policy documents for detail. Benefits may require prior authorisation and are subject to clinical criteria; not all plans include all maternity scan events.

Understanding What’s Included

Maternity scan cover is typically most comprehensive when accessed through a combined plan, joining day-to-day maternity and in-hospital events under one monthly premium. Hospital plans support costs if you require inpatient care for pregnancy-related complications, which often include scans conducted during hospital admission. The right plan for your household will depend on your needs, family size, and monthly budget. You can explore options further via the current pricing page for full pricing breakdowns.

Choosing the Right Health Cover for Your Maternity Journey

It’s important to compare exactly what each plan offers for maternity scans before enrolling. Below are practical steps and considerations for Sandton parents-to-be.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. List your expected scan needs as recommended by your Healthcare Practitioner.
2. Compare plan types: combined, hospital, and day-to-day only options.
3. Review the annual benefit limits and any required waiting periods for maternity events.
4. Check if prior authorisation is needed before booking scans.
5. Ask about the process for claiming scan costs, both in-hospital and out-of-hospital.

Benefits of Network Providers

Affinity Health’s nationwide provider network extends to Sandton and surrounds, so members can access private ultrasound and diagnostic services efficiently. To find network hospitals and Healthcare Practitioners, use the hospital finder tool or provider locator.

Managing Your Maternity Healthcare Budget

South African Context and Practical Tips

• Enrol early in your pregnancy to ensure all maternity benefits and waiting periods apply in time for your scans.
• Always confirm which Healthcare Practitioners and facilities are in network for maternity services.
• Review exclusions in the plan documents-some scan types may not be included under all health insurance covers.

While private scans remain an out-of-pocket expense for many, reliable health insurance can mitigate the biggest financial surprises, giving Sandton parents confidence as they plan for their new family member. For full plan guides, visit the Affinity Junior and Affinity Senior pages for age-specific family solutions.

Sources

• Affinity Health - Combined Health Plan Details
• Affinity Health - Hospital Plan Guide
• Western Cape Government - Antenatal Care Checklist
• South African National Department of Health
• South African Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (SASOG)