Maternity coverage for services included under Standard Health Benefit (SHB) is effective from the first start date of employment which should also be the same as the first date of insurance coverage in general. Maternity benefits under SHB is typically 2nd and 3rd trimester ultrasounds at the hospital or an approved facility outside of the hospital, and any blood tests performed in the hospital and the hospital charges for the delivery. Any private practice fees for the care (pre-natal and delivery) are not included under SHB and therefore are not required to be covered by insurance from the first date of employment. Check with your insurers for the period of employment required for your policy to cover these supplemental services.