Specific insurance plans for surrogate mothers on the anvil

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In a move that will provide more financial security for surrogate mothers, insurance companies are now designing specific insurance products for them, thanks to an initiative by the insurance regulator.

Business lineInquiries of health insurance companies revealed that at least six insurance companies are now working on designing specific products to meet the needs of this sector while two of them are almost ready with specific products.

“This is gradually becoming an important area as a health condition despite the legal and emotional challenges of surrogacy. Following the directions of the insurance regulator, we are working on a special product that will have specific riders for surrogate mothers’ pregnancy,” the head of underwriting at a major private insurer told Business line On condition of anonymity.

“Surrogacy is a medical option for families or individuals who due to medical conditions are unable to conceive on their own and are unable to start a family,” said Bhaskar Nirokar, Group Health Management Team Leader, Bajaj Alliance General Insurance.

Referring to Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) move to ensure the availability of suitable products, Nirurkar said the move is “welcome” as it will provide cover for these families and truly fulfill their dream of having children especially now with the medical advances in this field. This comprehensive move will provide these individuals with access to high-quality medical care.”

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There are sufficient legal provisions to cover surrogacy. As per section 4(3)(a) of the Surrogacy (Regulation Act) Act 2021, insurance coverage can be offered in favor of the surrogate mother for a period of 36 months covering postpartum complications of childbirth.

The Surrogacy (Regulation) Rules 2022 provide for mandatory insurance coverage. It says, “A woman or a couple desiring to purchase public health insurance coverage in favor of a surrogate mother for a period of 36 months from an IRDAI-recognised insurance company or agent in an amount sufficient to cover all expenses for all complications arising from pregnancy and which also covers obstetric complications after childbirth.”

The commissioned couple will have to bear all the expenses as well as the egg donor’s insurance guarantee for 12 months as well as public health insurance coverage for the same period, according to the rules. Yegna Priya Bhararhi, Managing Director, IRDAI has already instructed all insurance companies to ensure the availability of suitable surrogacy products with immediate effect.