CPM vs CNM for homebirth in NJ

[Coco_Hikes]

Hi all!

Apologies for asking such a basic question, but my brain is fried after sifting through my insurance's "handbook" (as if) trying to figure out what coverage we have versus what I want to appeal for in seeking coverage for a homebirth in NJ.

I am currently a client at a practice of CNMs. They are affiliated with another (independent, I assume) CNM who is not covered by my insurance, but who is the homebirth mw for this practice. She's already told me she never gets reimbursed by my particular insurance, so I am trying to figure out a work-around (we cannot afford her 6k fee on our own).

There is another midwife who does homebirths in my area, but she is a CPM. I'm assuming she's also not covered by our plan, but haven't confirmed this yet.

I understand the differences between these two types of midwives from a care and training standpoint, but how are they different from the point of view of an insurance company? Or is it just more likely that homebirth midwives, whether CNMs or CPMs, are not covered by my particular insurance (Aetna HMO) in my particular area (northern NJ)?

Any insight is appreciated!

[DinaAurichio]

Hi-

As a home birth CPM in NJ I can tell you that none of us are in network providers for home birth. You can try to get an in-network exception but that may not happen because of the HMO part of your policy. What I would tell you is to go with the midwife you feel the best about. CPM training is specific to home birth. That is all that we do, so we are "experts" in this field, if you will. Please feel free to email me if you have any other questions!
Dina, CPM in NJ!!

[almadianna]

I agree with the above poster. Go with who you feel the best with.

I used a CNM because that is who I liked it, both CNMs and CPMs are well trained and educated.

[Belle]

I want to add that CPMs are often on out-of-network coverage, but unfortunately Aetna is notorious for denying hb claims.