Health Insurance Articles

When Pregnancy Is A Preexisting Insurance Coverage Condition

2011-01-06

Are you worried that you won't be able to find insurance coverage because you're already pregnant? Many insurance companies will deny coverage because of your preexisting condition, but fortunately there are many options for pregnant women. If you're pregnant, but do not have health insurance, try the following options.

Check Into COBRA

If you were recently employed, your previous employer may be obligated to still provide insurance benefits through COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act). Insurance through COBRA can be quite pricey, but you'll still save when you compare the cost of monthly premiums with medical bills from a problem pregnancy or a delivery with complications.

Find Group Health Insurance

Group health plans that provide maternity care coverage are not allowed to deny you coverage due to your preexisting condition of pregancy, thanks to the Health Insurance Portability and accountability Act (otherwise known as HIPAA). This means you can get insurance coverage if your spouse is on a group health plan or if you get a job that provides group health coverage. You may even be able to get a part time job that provides group health benefits; check out options like Starbucks, Staples, and Whole Foods.

See if You Qualify for Government Sponsored Health Insurance

There are two government programs that may provide you with the insurance coverage you need. If your income level is under 200% of the established poverty level guidelines, you will most likely qualify for Medicaid, which provides free health insurance. You can also apply for CHIP (Children's Health Insurance Program), which is an inexpensive health insurance plan that covers prenatal care, labor and delivery and post-partum care. CHIP qualifications vary from state to state, so you'll have to look into your state's requirements to see if you are eligible or not.

Check Out Charitable Foundations

You may be offered assistance, including reduced cost prenatal services, sponsored by charitable foundations like Catholic Charities or Lutheran Social Services. You can also visit Planned Parenthood or get information about local services through the American Pregnancy Association. You can also look into getting support from WIC, a federal agency devoted to the health of Women, Infants, and Children. WIC may be able to refer you to free or low-cost clinics or other resources. You'll probably get food stamps, coupons for free or reduced-cost prenatal services, and important information on how to navigate your pregnancy safely and healthfully.

An uninsured pregnancy and delivery can be extremely costly. To avoid having to make decisions regarding health care according to cost, it is in your best interest to investigate all health insurance pos