Changing health insurance in pregnancy: is it possible?
Are you pregnant and want to switch your health insurance policy? Comparis gives you tips and tells you what you need to know.
05.09.2023
iStock/Vasyl Dolmatov
1. Can I switch basic insurance when pregnant?
There is nothing stopping you from switching basic insurance during pregnancy. However, you must pay all unpaid bills with your existing insurer before you’re able to properly switch.
The cancellation notice period is one month before the end of the year. This means that the cancellation letter must reach the insurance company by the last working day of November.
Note: the date of the postmark doesn’t count here – only the date of receipt by the insurer. We suggest setting up a cancellation reminder to make sure you give notice in time.
Which deductible makes most sense during pregnancy?
Health insurers do not class normal pregnancies as an illness. Maternity benefits are clearly defined in the Federal Health Insurance Act. Basic insurance must cover any medical costs arising due to pregnancy and childbirth – with no out-of-pocket expenses payable.
In addition, you don’t have to pay any out-of-pocket expenses towards the cost of general medical treatment and care if you are ill. This applies from the 13th week of pregnancy until eight weeks after birth.
As long as you don’t have any health problems, you can therefore set your deductible at 2,500 francs when changing your health insurance company during pregnancy.This way, you’ll benefit from the lowest premiums. You can change your deductible at the end of the calendar year.
Health insurance companies offer discounts if the whole family is with the same company. Therefore, pay attention to possible family discounts when switching. Find out early about health insurance for babies and health insurance for families.
You can apply for health insurance for your unborn child. The main advantage of applying before the birth is that health insurers must accept the child for supplemental insurance. After birth, you need to complete a health questionnaire for your child. Health insurance companies may also reject supplemental insurance applications if made after the birth.
2. Can I switch supplemental insurance during pregnancy?
You can switch supplemental insurance during pregnancy. Please note though that health insurers have a waiting period for maternity benefits of nine to 12 months. They will only cover any maternity-related costs after this period.
This means it only makes sense to switch supplemental insurance during pregnancy if you don’t intend to claim any maternity benefits. If you do switch, you shouldn’t cancel your old supplemental insurance until you’ve been accepted by the new insurer.
This article was first published on 10.05.2021
