There is an inextricable connection between availability of quality postnatal services or postnatal care (PNC), and the survival of both the mother and the newborn. When getting a health insurance quote, it is important to include these services. Statistics prove that this relationship is a relevant health consideration; of the 2,682 babies evaluated; 73 were readmitted within the first 10 days of life: there was one maternal fatality. However, in a similar study of 326 newborns receiving PNC, only two had an ER visit, none readmitted. Most insurance professionals are aware, when providing health insurance quotes, postnatal services are a serious benefit consideration.

First, health insurers must be apprised and motivated to increase, strengthen, and expand the post natal care policy benefits, especially in the first ten days after birth. Although approximately 20 states have legislation mandating employers to provide maternity benefits for female employees, most are reluctant to include postnatal services; many erroneously believe that this inclusion would unequivocally increase the overall cost of the insurance coverage. Many families and women choose to obtain multiple health insurance quotes in an effort to have this indemnification available. The health insurance quote for private health insurance archetypically does not include a provision for maternity benefits and postnatal PNC benefits. A rider typically covers $2,000 of maternity care. However, in addition the employer provider coverage, this benefit included in the private health insurance quote will adequately offset the cost of PNC.

Secondly, maternity benefits that can be utilized for PNC will not incrementally increase the cost of the health insurance quotes appreciably. When used in conjunction with comprehensive health coverage, the cost to the insurer is minimal and usually not an expense. Some companies have recognized the benefits of PNC, especially home visits by a labor and delivery specialist during the first ten days of the newborn's life. The nurse will assess the newborn's weight, evaluate umbilical cord healing, ascertain the mother's condition and temperature in the event of an impending infection, provide breastfeeding tips and instruction, and observe the healing of the surgical site. These benefits initially seem expensive; ultimately, they will translate into savings on the health insurance quote.

There is a minor imperceptible difference in the health insurance quote that includes PNC benefits because of the savings to the health insurance provider. An ER visit will cost the insurer approximately $250.00, whereas, PNC utilizing a visiting nurse will cost the company $130.00, a savings of $120.00.

Therefore, the inclusion of PNC benefits with the maternity rider is a life and death benefit for the insured and a profit margin benefit for the company.