Maternity Health Insurance
How To Find Health Insurance For Maternity
If you are pregnant, or if you would like to have a baby, you are may be very concerned about the cost. This is particularly true if your pregnancy is not already covered by your major medical insurance plan. Most group health policies from work will have maternity benefits. If a pregnant woman, or spouse, is covered by group benefits you probably do not have that much to worry about. But millions of people in the US lack medical insurance, and so the cost of good pre-natal care and delivery are big concerns.
Group Health - Again, one of the most common plans that cover all the aspects of having a healthy baby are group major medical plans. If you are planning for maternity, and this is availabe, you certainly want to opt in to your own, or your spouse’s, employer’s plan.
Individual Health Insurance – The market of private insurers who offer normal maternity benefits is a little sparser. While complications of pregnancy should be covered under the regular health benefits, normal office visits, blood tests, and delivery probably are not included.
Assurant Health (Time) is one of the only major individual and family health insurance companies that commonly offers a maternity rider (option). This rider does have a waiting period, and it does cost more than a basic plan. If you think you may get pregnant, you would certainly want to consider this. Keep in mind, that it does have a waiting period for maternity benefits, and it will certainly not accept somebody who is already pregnant!
In some states, the maternity coverage has a high deductible, like $5,000 – $10,000. An HSA (health savings account) which allows you to save money and deduct savings may be a good option to help you pay our portion. If you would like to become pregnant, saving for your part of the expenses, may be an option.
One good thing about having insurance, in general, is that you will usually pay the insurance company negotiated cost for medical services. This is usually a fraction of the normal charges. It is good to have an insurer on your side!
Find Individual Health Insurance Quotes – The online form can help you compare plans in your own area. If you are concerned about pregnancy, make sure that is an option before you sign up for coverage. In some states it is actually mandatory, but it usually is not.
Public Plans – Chips (Children’s Health Insurance) or Medicaid do cover pregnant women with low to moderate incomes and assets. You could check their websites to see if you qualify, or you could talk to somebody at your local Department of Health and Human Serices.
Payment Plans – These days, many doctors and hospitals offer payment plans. This may be a good option if your income is too high to qualify for public benefits. You could check with OB-Gyns and hospitals in your area. You could also look into private financing, like a loan, to help you manage the costs of maternity.
How Much Does It Cost to Have A Baby?
Costs vary across the US. Many estimates tell us to expect to spend $5,000 – $10,000 for a normal delivery. You will have to pay for office visits, tests, and a hospital stay. If you suffer any complications, this cost can skyrocket. It is much better to plan ahead to be sure you have maternity coverage. But since we are all humans who live in an imperfect world, this is not always possible. Either way, it is good to explore your options so you do. everything you can to prepare for a healthy baby
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