What is Cleft Lip and Palate?

Cleft lip and palate are congenital conditions that occur when a baby’s lip or mouth does not fully form during pregnancy. A cleft lip is a split in the upper lip that can range from a small notch to a large gap that extends up into the nose. A cleft palate, on the other hand, is an opening in the roof of the mouth that can affect one or both sides. These conditions can occur individually or together and are among the most common congenital deformities.

Impact on the Child

The impact of cleft lip and palate on a child can be significant, affecting not only physical appearance but also functional aspects such as feeding, speech, and dental health. Children with these conditions may face challenges such as:

• Feeding Difficulties: Infants with a cleft palate may struggle to create the necessary suction to feed, leading to inadequate nutrition and weight gain.
• Speech Impairments: As the child grows, they may experience difficulties with speech development, requiring speech therapy.
• Dental Issues: Children with clefts are at a higher risk for dental problems, including misaligned teeth and an increased likelihood of cavities.
• Psychosocial Effects: The visible nature of cleft lip can lead to social stigma and emotional challenges as the child grows.

Cost of Treatment

The treatment for cleft lip and palate typically involves a multidisciplinary approach, including surgery, speech therapy, and dental care. The costs associated with these treatments can be substantial. In Malaysia, the estimated costs include:

1. Initial Surgical Repair: The primary surgery to repair a cleft lip can cost between RM10,000 to RM30,000, while cleft palate repair may range from RM15,000 to RM40,000.
2. Follow-Up Surgeries: Additional surgeries may be required as the child grows, which can add another RM10,000 to RM20,000 per procedure.
3. Speech Therapy: Ongoing speech therapy sessions can cost around RM100 to RM300 per session, with multiple sessions needed over time.
4. Dental Care: Orthodontic treatment and dental care can range from RM5,000 to RM15,000, depending on the complexity of the dental issues.

Possible Treatments

Treatment for cleft lip and palate typically involves several stages:

• Surgical Repair: The initial surgery is usually performed when the child is a few months old. The goal is to close the cleft lip and/or palate to restore normal function and appearance.
• Speech Therapy: After surgery, many children benefit from speech therapy to address any speech delays or difficulties.
• Dental Care: Regular dental check-ups and orthodontic treatment are essential to manage any dental issues that arise as the child grows.

How A-Plus BabyCare Xtra Covers This Condition

The A-Plus BabyCare Xtra plan provides comprehensive coverage for congenital conditions, including cleft lip and palate. Key benefits of this plan include:

• In-Patient Care: Coverage for hospitalization costs associated with surgical repairs and any necessary medical interventions.
• Annual Coverage Limit: Depending on the selected plan, coverage can reach up to RM30,000 per year for treatment related to congenital conditions, alleviating the financial burden on families.
• Reimbursement for Reasonable Charges: The plan reimburses reasonable and customary charges for eligible expenses, ensuring that families can access the care their child needs without financial strain.

By enrolling in the A-Plus BabyCare Xtra plan, parents can ensure that their child receives the necessary medical care for cleft lip and palate, allowing them to focus on their child’s health and development.

Conclusion

Cleft lip and palate are significant congenital conditions that can affect a child’s life in various ways. However, with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, many children can lead fulfilling lives. The A-Plus BabyCare Xtra plan offers essential coverage for families, ensuring access to the medical care required for these conditions. By understanding cleft lip and palate and the support available, parents can navigate this journey with confidence and peace of mind.

Message me, Swan Lin, Life Planner with AIA to speak immediately about coverage for your unborn baby.