Finding Health Insurance for Pregnancy

Finding out that you are pregnant can be a time of joy and excitement. However, if you do not have health insurance, it can be a time of stress as to how to pay for all of the medical appointments and the delivery. Sometimes, health insurance companies consider pregnancy as a preexisting condition, which can affect health care coverage. A delivery can cost in excess of $6,000, which does not include regular doctor visits or a high risk delivery.

Instructions

1. Contact your local Department of Health. They can give you information on the WIC (Women, Infant and Children) program that assists persons in need with nutritious foods to supplement their diet and education on healthy eating. In addition, the WIC program makes healthcare referrals if needed. Your local Department of Health is also a place that you can find out about any special statewide health programs available for pregnant women.

2. Apply for Medicaid, which is a federally funded program run through each state. This program is only available for low income families, so you must meet financial eligibility requirements in order to receive services. Upon meeting eligibility requirements, Medicaid can cover the costs of your pregnancy. Each state has their own set of requirements, so check with your local Department of Social Services for more information on how to apply.

3. Take advantage of health care discount programs available. Discount programs are not healthcare insurance, but offer reduced fees on healthcare services. Maternity Advantage can save you up to 60% on healthcare costs. The program works to get lower prices through a preferred network. A comprehensive plan is available for a monthly fee. To find out more about Maternity Advantage, call 1-800-450-0183. AmeriPlan is also available in all states, except for Alaska. It offers a discount up to 50% on healthcare services. To find out more about AmeriPlan, call 1-800-647-8421.

4. If your pregnancy is considered low risk, check to see if there is a birthing center in your local area that will accept payment on a sliding scale. The cost to deliver at a birthing center is usually half of the cost to deliver at a hospital. Birthing centers focus more on natural birth and provide a homelike setting for your delivery.

Tips & Warnings

• If you plan to deliver your baby at a hospital, ask the accounts office if they offer care on a sliding scale basis.

• Prenatal care is important to the health status of the baby and mother. Do not let a lack of insurance keep you from seeking healthcare.

Resources

• American Pregnancy Association