Having health insurance during pregnancy is an important part in receiving the appropriate care. This is a time in women’s life where proper care and preventative measures are dire to the health of the mother and unborn child. Health insurance alleviates the burden of medical bills, and it makes it easier to receive check ups and tests.
Prior to the passage of the Affordable Care Act, not all plans included maternity benefits. This created additional stress for women and families not knowing how to cover maternity expenses. These benefits are now included in the ten essential healthcare benefits. The Affordable Care Act regulated health insurance providers to cover several services received by pregnant women. With a health insurance plan during pregnancy, a woman can attend prenatal visits, participate in routine tests, have access to emergency services, and cover the birth of the child.
When it comes to choosing a health insurance plan, it’s best to choose what works for you based on your individual situation. Most people are insured through their place of employment. If this is not the case, pregnant women should consider finding an available and affordable plan. Some options include the health care market place (Healthcare.gov), Medicaid, and CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program).
Health insurance coverage during pregnancy is a good way to guarantee the wellbeing of the mother and the child. Anyone considering getting pregnant or who is already pregnant, have options to consider when seeking care.
This blog written by Family and Consumer Sciences student intern Ashante Scott.
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