Get More Benefits &
Save More! Call For
More Info Today

What You Need to Know Regarding Maternity Coverage

Maternity health insurance coverage is one of the 10 essential health benefits that must be covered by all health insurance plans provided to individuals, families, and small groups. Health insurance for pregnancy, labor, delivery, as well as newborn baby care, became mandatory in 2014 under the Affordable Care Act.

What has changed about maternity coverage?

All health insurance plans offered to families, individuals and groups must cover maternity health insurance.

Before 2014, maternity coverage was not a guaranteed benefit, and only about 12% of health insurance plans sold in the individual market included this coverage, based on the ObamaCareFacts.com. Maternity coverage was provided only by some health insurance plans or had to be added as a special rider to a plan. Additionally, pregnancy was regarded as a pre-existing condition, meaning maternity coverage was either unavailable to women who were already pregnant when they enrolled or would cost more.

This marked the first time in United States history that women have had guaranteed access to maternity coverage, and is a clear benefit for women who are or may become pregnant.

Covered Services for Expectant Mothers and Babies

Maternity services covered by health plans consist of:

• Outpatient services, like prenatal and postnatal doctor visits, gestational diabetes screenings, lab studies, medications, etc.
• Inpatient services, such as hospitalization, doctor fees, etc.
• Newborn baby care
• Lactation counseling as well as breast pump rental

When to Enroll in a Health Plan to Cover Your Maternity

You can always enroll in or change to different health coverage during the Open Enrollment Period, which starts on November 15 each year for coverage beginning in the next calendar year.

Note that becoming expectant is not a qualifying life event that makes you eligible to enroll in or change your health insurance at any other time of year. Nevertheless, the birth of your baby is a qualifying life event; the birth prompts a 60-day special enrollment period during which you, your spouse, and your kids can enroll in and/or change health plans.

Getting Cheap Maternity Health Coverage

Maternity health insurance is a mandatory benefit in the country.

Because maternity coverage is now a mandatory benefit, you can pick any one of the many health insurance plans we offer. To see what insurance plans are available in your state, get a free personalized quote by contacting Health Insurance Plans.

When you see the plans offered in your area, choose the health insurance plans that seem to fit your requirements and budget best, then compare benefits or see plan details.

When you are ready, you can see if you are eligible for a state subsidy to help pay for your insurance, and you can also apply for your preferred health plan, all right online.

References and Resources

• Obama Care Facts 
• Health Coverage for Expectant Mothers