Pregnancy and childbirth

Pregnancy and childbirth

Expecting a baby? Congratulations! You’re probably looking forward to choosing a name, selecting birth announcement cards, decorating the nursery, and so much more. An intense and exciting time lies ahead. On this page you’ll find out how Vanbreda can support you and what you need to do to ensure your costs are reimbursed smoothly.

How do we help you?

Your hospitalisation insurance reimburses many additional medical costs that aren’t covered by your health insurance fund during a hospital stay. These may include your personal contribution (copay), supplements in addition to standard doctors’ fees, and extra costs if you choose a single room during your hospital stay.

What do you need to do?

Notify us of your hospitalisation based on your expected due date. You can do this easily via the Vanbreda App or the web portal. We’ll then process your file for further reimbursement of your future costs.

Additional government support

The social security system in Belgium provides a strong safety net during pregnancy and afterwards to support families. Here is a brief overview of the additional statutory benefits available:

• The so-called ‘groeipakket’ child benefits, paid in Flanders through Fons.

• You can find more info about the start allowance and child benefits on MyFamily.

• Contact your health insurance fund for more information about any additional support.

Room choice and reimbursements

As an expectant mother, you might prefer a single room, so you can enjoy some peace and quiet with your baby and regain your strength. Please bear in mind, however, that this option may increase your hospital bill. Hospitals apply different rates depending on the type of room you choose. If you stay in a single room, your doctor is entitled to charge additional fees or supplements. Make sure to ask your hospital about the additional costs of a single room and check which supplements are covered by your insurance policy.

Your hospitalisation insurance usually reimburses most medical costs. Non-medical expenses (such as beverages, personal care products or an overnight stay for your partner in the room) are not included. Also check whether your policy includes a personal contribution or copay: this is a minimum amount that you must pay yourself. This contribution may be higher if you opt for a single room.

Help with pre- and postnatal care

In addition to your hospital bill, your insurance often also contributes to pre- and post-natal care costs, such as consultations with your gynaecologist, pre- and post-natal physiotherapy, maternity support services or midwife-led care. Let your pharmacist scan your AssurPharma barcode when purchasing prescription medication and we’ll handle the reimbursement of your medication for you. To arrange maternity care, contact your health insurance fund directly.

What about your hospital bill?

We typically settle the bill for your hospital admission directly with the hospital. We do this through the third-party payment scheme (Medi-Link). Make sure to report your pregnancy (including the expected due date) in advance. You can do this online via the Vanbreda App or using the web portal.

Outpatient delivery or home birth?

If you choose an outpatient birth at the hospital, simply submit the same online report as you would for any regular childbirth or caesarian. Planning a home birth instead? Then make sure to check the coverage for home births in your insurance plan. In your policy terms and conditions, you’ll also find how to add your baby to your hospitalisation insurance.