MetLife Pet Insurance vs Nationwide Pet Insurance
Choosing the right pet insurance policy can be a daunting task with a multitude of options available on the market. Two of the most well-regarded providers are MetLife and Nationwide. Each has its unique features and benefits, but how do they stack up against each other?
Overview of MetLife Pet Insurance
MetLife, a stalwart in the insurance world, has a strong presence in the pet insurance industry as well. Their pet insurance policies are known for their customization options and broad coverage, which include preventive care, illnesses, accidents, and more.
Coverage
MetLife covers a comprehensive list of conditions and treatments. From general wellness care like vaccinations and routine exams, to more complex treatments like surgeries, MetLife has your pet covered. Holistic care, which is rarely covered by other insurance providers, is also included in MetLife’s policy.
Pricing
MetLife’s pricing varies greatly based on your pet’s age, breed, and location. You can also customize your policy with different annual limits, deductibles, and reimbursement levels to fit your budget.
Customer Service
MetLife offers customer service via phone and email, and claim submissions can be made easily online or via mail.
Overview of Nationwide Pet Insurance
Nationwide is known for its comprehensive coverage and the unique benefit of being often offered through employers. They provide an array of plans catering to different needs.
Coverage
Nationwide’s pet insurance covers accidents, illnesses, and even wellness care under its ‘Whole Pet with Wellness’ plan. This plan includes preventive measures, dental cleaning, and even spay/neuter surgeries, which are not commonly covered by other providers.
Pricing
Nationwide’s pricing is dependent on your pet’s breed, age, and location. One highlight of Nationwide is the availability of employer discounts, which can significantly reduce your premiums.
Customer Service
Nationwide offers 24/7 customer service, and policyholders can submit claims online, via mail, or through their app.
Head-to-Head: MetLife vs Nationwide
Coverage Comparison
While both MetLife and Nationwide offer broad coverage, Nationwide edges out with its inclusion of wellness care in its standard plan. MetLife, however, provides coverage for holistic treatments, which Nationwide does not.
Pricing Comparison
Pricing for both MetLife and Nationwide is highly dependent on individual pet circumstances, so it’s hard to say definitively which is cheaper. However, if your employer offers Nationwide pet insurance, you could potentially save a lot.
Customer Service Comparison
Both providers offer solid customer service, but Nationwide offers 24/7 customer service, which gives it an edge for those who prefer round-the-clock assistance.
Customization: MetLife vs Nationwide
When it comes to policy customization, MetLife holds a slight edge over Nationwide. MetLife offers pet owners the flexibility to adjust deductibles, reimbursement levels, and annual limits, allowing for a more tailored policy that suits individual financial situations and coverage needs. This high degree of customization is perfect for pet parents who desire control over the finer details of their pet insurance policy.
In contrast, Nationwide offers fewer customization options. However, the insurer shines in its diversity of plans, including the basic ‘Major Medical’ plan, the comprehensive ‘Whole Pet’ plan, and the ‘Whole Pet with Wellness’ plan, which encompasses wellness and preventive care.
Claim Process: MetLife vs Nationwide
Both MetLife and Nationwide have a straightforward claim process. MetLife allows pet owners to submit claims through their online portal or via traditional mail, ensuring convenience regardless of your technological comfort level. However, the reimbursement time can take up to two weeks, which may be a drawback for some pet owners.
Nationwide, on the other hand, offers pet owners the added convenience of a mobile app for claim submission. Nationwide’s claim reimbursement typically occurs within 14 days, comparable to MetLife. An advantage with Nationwide is its direct vet payment feature, which means that under certain circumstances, Nationwide can pay the vet directly rather than reimbursing the pet owner. This can be a significant relief in high-cost medical situations.
Wellness Coverage: MetLife vs Nationwide
In the arena of wellness coverage, Nationwide has an edge. Under its ‘Whole Pet with Wellness’ plan, preventive care like vaccinations, routine examinations, and even parasite prevention are covered. This coverage extends to spay/neuter procedures and dental cleanings, which are often excluded from typical pet insurance plans.
While MetLife also covers preventive care, it’s only included in its optional wellness coverage, which is an addition to the standard plan. If wellness coverage is a priority for you, Nationwide’s inclusive approach may provide better value.
Holistic and Alternative Therapies: MetLife vs Nationwide
For pet owners seeking holistic and alternative treatments for their pets, MetLife is a strong contender. Unlike many other pet insurance companies, MetLife covers alternative treatments like acupuncture, chiropractic care, and other holistic therapies. If these types of treatments are important to you, MetLife is a solid choice.
Nationwide, unfortunately, does not cover holistic or alternative treatments in its standard plans. This might be a deciding factor for pet parents who favor a more holistic approach to pet health care.
Employer Benefits: MetLife vs Nationwide
One distinct advantage Nationwide holds is its common inclusion in employer benefits packages. Nationwide has partnerships with hundreds of employers across the United States, offering pet insurance at discounted rates. If your employer provides Nationwide pet insurance as part of their benefits package, it could result in substantial savings, making Nationwide a financially appealing choice.
While MetLife also partners with employers to provide pet insurance, these collaborations are less common than with Nationwide. If your employer offers MetLife pet insurance, it’s worth considering the convenience and potential cost savings.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between MetLife and Nationwide pet insurance depends on your pet’s specific needs and your financial considerations. Both offer robust coverage, but Nationwide’s inclusion of wellness care and potential employer discounts may sway some pet owners. On the other hand, MetLife’s coverage of holistic treatments sets it apart from many competitors, making it a compelling choice for pet owners interested in alternative care options.
FAQs on MetLife vs Nationwide Pet Insurance
Q: What does MetLife Pet Insurance cover?
MetLife Pet Insurance offers comprehensive coverage, including accidents, illnesses, hereditary and congenital conditions, and behavioral issues. It also covers holistic treatments, an aspect not commonly found in pet insurance policies. Wellness care, such as routine check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive medications, is optional and can be added to your policy.
Q: Does Nationwide Pet Insurance offer preventive care coverage?
Yes, Nationwide offers preventive care coverage under its ‘Whole Pet with Wellness’ plan. This includes routine check-ups, vaccinations, preventive medications, dental cleanings, and even spay/neuter surgeries.
Q: How does MetLife Pet Insurance handle pre-existing conditions?
Like most pet insurance providers, MetLife does not cover pre-existing conditions. These are typically defined as conditions that occurred or showed symptoms before coverage began or during a waiting period. However, some conditions may be covered if the pet is symptom-free for a certain period, often 6 months to a year.
Q: Can I use my own vet with Nationwide Pet Insurance?
Absolutely. Nationwide Pet Insurance allows you to visit any licensed veterinarian, emergency care clinic, or specialty hospital. There are no network restrictions. It’s worth noting that Nationwide also has a direct vet payment feature, allowing Nationwide to pay your vet directly under certain circumstances.
Q: Is chronic condition coverage included in MetLife’s policies?
Yes, chronic conditions are covered under MetLife Pet Insurance, provided the condition was not present before the policy start date or during the waiting period. Once your pet is insured, coverage for chronic conditions continues as long as the policy remains in effect.
As with most pet insurance companies, Nationwide may adjust your premium based on your pet’s age, breed, location, and other factors. However, your pet will not be dropped from coverage due to age or the number of claims made.
Q: Does MetLife Pet Insurance cover prescription medications?
Yes, prescription medications prescribed to treat covered conditions are included in MetLife’s coverage. This is a significant benefit, as prescription medications can often be a considerable expense when treating a pet’s illness or injury.
Q: What is the waiting period for Nationwide Pet Insurance?
Nationwide has a waiting period of 14 days for illnesses. For accidents, the waiting period is just two days. Certain conditions may have specific waiting periods, and these will be outlined in your policy. During these waiting periods, any conditions that present symptoms will be classified as pre-existing and won’t be covered.
Q: How user-friendly is MetLife’s pet insurance portal?
MetLife offers a user-friendly online portal where pet owners can manage their policies, submit claims, and track their claim status. Claims can also be submitted via traditional mail. The platform’s intuitive design makes it easy for users to find information and complete tasks, enhancing the overall customer experience.
Q: Does Nationwide Pet Insurance cover behavioral issues?
Yes, behavioral treatments are covered under Nationwide’s ‘Whole Pet’ and ‘Whole Pet with Wellness’ plans, provided they are performed by a licensed veterinarian. Coverage includes issues like separation anxiety, compulsive behaviors, and destructive chewing.
Q: How quickly does MetLife reimburse claims?
MetLife aims to process and reimburse claims within 10-14 business days, depending on the complexity of the claim. Users are encouraged to submit claims online for the fastest turnaround time.
Q: Can I get a multi-pet discount with Nationwide Pet Insurance?
Yes, Nationwide offers a multi-pet discount. If you insure more than one pet with Nationwide, you can receive a discount on your policy, making it more affordable for households with multiple pets.
Several factors can impact your premium with MetLife, including your pet’s breed, age, health condition, the coverage level you choose, and your geographical location. Choosing a higher deductible, lower reimbursement level, or lower annual limit can decrease your premium.
Q: Does Nationwide Pet Insurance cover dental illnesses?
Yes, Nationwide covers dental illnesses and injuries in its ‘Whole Pet’ plans. This includes dental diseases such as periodontal disease, extractions, and even root canals.
Q: Can I cancel my MetLife Pet Insurance policy at any time?
Yes, you can cancel your MetLife Pet Insurance policy at any time. If you cancel within the first 30 days of coverage, you’ll receive a full refund of any paid premium, provided you haven’t received payment or are not entitled to receive payment for a claim.
Q: Does Nationwide Pet Insurance cover alternative therapies?
Nationwide’s ‘Whole Pet’ plans include coverage for some alternative therapies, such as acupuncture and chiropractic care, when performed by a licensed veterinarian. This can provide valuable support for pets requiring these treatments.
