Finding Health Insurance for Pregnant Women

Going about everyday life without health insurance is a dangerous risk. Going about everyday life without health insurance while you’re pregnant is an even bigger one. For pregnant women, health insurance is much-needed commodity. The numerous doctor visits, prenatal medication, procedures and tests all contribute to the expensive pregnancy. And that doesn’t even include the delivery fees and doctor costs.

Even women who possess health insurance are at risk. Many coverage plans exclude maternity coverage, creating much stress for women who find out only after it’s too late. During a time when money is scarce, adding another member to a family can create a enormous strain on a family’s financial situation.

Plenty of Options to Choose From

Fortunately, there are a few health insurance options available to those who are in desperate need of health insurance:

1. Government funded programs. A federally-funded, state-run program, Medicaid offers medical assistance to families and individuals with little to no income. Some states have additional options and programs for pregnant women, so be sure to check with your state’s health department for more information.

2. Woman Infant Children (WIC). WIC is a federal agency that offers federal grants to states for supplemental foods, health insurance referrals, and nutrition education for pregnant/breastfeeding/non-breastfeeding postpartum women with limited little to no income.

3. Health care discount programs. If you possess a health insurance policy with a gap in it, discount programs may be able to help you save some money. Programs like Maternity Advantage and AmeriPlan can help you save up to 50 percent or more on doctor’s visits, tests, procedures, hospital stays and more.

4. Don’t be shy of payment plans. Always plan ahead in the event that your health insurance hunt fails. Contact the hospital’s accounting office and find out if you can set up a payment plan or ask about whether or not they offer sliding scales. "Many hospitals do offer these, but they are not utilized because people do not know what is available to them," according to the National Institute for Reproductive Health.

5. Birthing centers. If health insurance is too expensive for you, consider delivering your baby in a birthing center rather than a hospital. Delivering in a hospital costs twice as much. The midwives at birthing centers are certified and should be more than able to take care of a patient and her baby. Many even accept Medicaid and are willing to work out payment plans. The problem with birthing centers, however, is that they offer no pain medicine. They also lack surgeons in case an emergency occurs.

While being pregnant is an exciting and unforgettable period in a woman’s life, it can also put a hefty strain on a financial situation. Being pregnant without health insurance, however, is a situation all women want to avoid. Comparing health insurance quotes online provides a solution to the problem. If you are pregnant or are expecting to be, start comparing health insurance quotes today to make sure you and your child receive the best protection. Contact your local health insurance agent if you need any further questions answered.

Pregnant and Uninsured
Guard against health insurance gap in case you may one day need maternity coverage