Finding yourself pregnant without health insurance is a frightening experience. Fortunately, there are several options for you to consider if you find yourself in this situation. You might have some health coverage options, or you can work with your doctor's office to find a way to handle the expenses of your prenatal and delivery care. These steps provide several solutions.
Instructions
1. Determine whether or not you want to marry the baby's father. If your significant other is someone to whom you are already engaged or someone with whom you planned to have a long term relationship, marriage might be an option. Most employer-based health insurance plans make it possible for an employee to add his new wife to his health insurance immediately. The pregnancy can be covered by the new health insurance policy when the insurance carrier does not list pregnancy as a pre-existing condition.
2. Apply for Medicaid at your local assistance office. If you do not have health insurance and are pregnant, you might be eligible for medical assistance if you have a low income and very few assets. The income limits for pregnant women are a bit higher than for individuals applying under other circumstances. You have nothing to lose by completing an application.
3. Apply for a maternity discount card. A health discount plan is not health insurance, however, it will save you money on your medical expenses. If you do not have health insurance, these discount plans will save you from needing to pay 100 percent of your pregnancy related expenses out of pocket. Visit the American Pregnancy website for information about some health savings plans that can help you save up to 50 percent or more off your medical expenses, if you are pregnant and do not have health insurance.
4. Contact your OBGYN or family care physician to determine if there are any special programs in your area for pregnant women who are uninsured. There might be clinics in your area that provide prenatal care. Your physician or local hospital might offer reduced rates and other financial assistance to expectant mothers who are without insurance.
5. Work with your hospital or doctor's office to setup a payment plan for your prenatal and delivery care. Most hospitals will work with you to create payment plans. They will usually be reasonable in coming up with payment terms that meet your budget and that is feasible for your individual circumstances.
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