Should My Spouse and I Buy Health Insurance Before Our Wedding?

Yes, you can. Buying health insurance before your wedding is a smart decision. Even buying health insurance early comes with lower premiums and avoids waiting periods for any pre-existing conditions.

You can add your spouse later as a dependent and ensure they are protected right away, if you already have one. But if you wait until after your wedding, the waiting period starts fresh. It delays coverage for specific conditions. Most health insurance plans in India have waiting periods for maternity, childbirth, pre-existing diseases and specific surgeries.

What are the Key Features My Spouse and I Must Consider While Buying Health Insurance?

1. Network Hospitals and Cashless Treatment

Check if the insurance company provides access to a wide range of network hospitals in your home city and hometown. At network hospitals, you or your spouse can have cashless treatment, making claims easier.

2. Pre and Post Hospitalisation Coverage

Consider a minimum of 30 days pre-hospitalisation and 60-90 days post-hospitalisation coverage benefits. This coverage includes doctor visits, diagnostic tests, and medicines before and after a hospital stay.

3. Waiting Period

Review the waiting period for pre-existing conditions and maternity benefits. Most insurers impose a 9-month waiting period for maternity coverage and up to 2–3 years for certain illnesses, treatments, or surgeries.

4. OPD and Day Care Procedure

Modern health insurance should cover treatments that do not require a 24-hour hospital stay. Look for plans that cover OPD expenses like tests, doctor visits, and routine checkups.

5. Maternity and Newborn Baby Coverage

Check if maternity coverage is included in your plan, and it also covers newborn babies. Opt for a plan that covers your newborn baby from day 1 up to a certain age limit.

6. Deductibles

Opt for a plan with no deductions, so you don't have to pay out-of-pocket before receiving coverage.

How Much Coverage Should My Spouse and I Buy?

How much health insurance coverage do you and your spouse need? It can be tricky. From this rough estimation, you can understand your needs and what is best for you.

• Suppose you are living in a big city like Delhi, Bengaluru, or Mumbai, you can buy ₹10-15 lakh coverage. You can go for a floater plan or add different coverage benefits, mixing riders to get an extensive coverage.

• If you are living in a smaller city, ₹7-10 lakh health insurance might be better, depending on hospital costs and your budget.

Planning to start a family soon? If so, it is wise to opt for a higher coverage amount right from the beginning, especially with a floater plan. This ensures both you and your spouse are better protected against future medical expenses.

Final Words

Buy your health insurance early, grab enough coverage, and understand the waiting periods. Do not hesitate to ask questions before making a decision. With the right health insurance, you and your partner can enjoy your new life together without the stress of medical bills hanging over you.