bit of health insurance freakout

[alexis_plus_three]

OK, so! Long story short: my current health insurance (through my work) has no maternity coverage. I was in the midst of switching over to my husband's plan -- when his company pulled health insurance for all employees about a week ago (they just learned today!).

So I'm 5w3d pregnant with no maternity coverage. My daughter was 5 weeks early -- emergency c-section due (she spent 10 days in the NICU) -- so I'm afraid I might be categorized as not exactly low-risk. I'm worried this may complicate matters (ie, birthing centers may not be an option, etc.).

I'm investigating options but curious if anyone has had experience or thoughts? I'm really open to everything!

Thanks in advance!

[whalemama17]

I'm sorry you're in this position. I know there is Medicaid for pregnant women? Not sure what the coverage is like...

[MommaCrystal]

My insurance doesn't cover any of it either. Ok, that isn't true. It will cover things after we reach the insane deductible! Which will reset on January 1. So nothing will be covered until well after the birth (c-section) and sometime into the hospital stay. Those monthly/biweekly/weekly appointments, blood tests, ultra sounds etc.... they are going to add up and HURT the wallet! OUCH! I'm really not sure how we are going to deal with this.

[thefreckledmama]

You should check into Medicaid for pregnant women. The qualifications are different than regular Medicaid. I've had it for 2 of my previous pregnancies. With my first when I didn't have insurance, and the second time when half way through my pregnancy my husband lost his job and we lost our insurance. I'm sure it depends a lot on where you live, but where I am (St. Louis area), there are excellent doctors who accept it.

ETA: As far as coverage goes, everything was covered-besides the lack of copay, I never noticed a difference in coverage or care between our private insurance and Medicaid.

[alexis_plus_three]

Jamie and Whalemama, thanks! Using your tip, I found out my state offers Premium Assistance for Maternity -- it's maternity coverage for women who make too much to qualify for regular Medicaid. I just talked to my doctor, they're going to give me a quick pregnancy test for the paperwork, and I'll send the packet off next week. Crossing my fingers it all works out...

MommaCrystal, maybe there's something similar in your area?

[NullSet]

That's great you found something that will work for you!