How to navigate your pregnancy and newborn-related health care expenses

[4 MIN READ]

In this article:

• Having a baby is an exciting time. There’s so much to think about and plan for, from preparing your home for the baby to preparing financially for prenatal care, hospital bills and other necessities along the way.

• There are ways to prepare ahead of time. If you have insurance, you should review your policy carefully with your provider before you deliver. 

• If you don't currently have insurance, there are options to get you and your baby covered. Financial assistance is available from a variety of sources, including Providence. 

Becoming a new parent is an exciting time. But as every new parent quickly learns, a baby also comes with added responsibilities — and costs. One of the most important things to consider before your baby arrives? Whether you have enough health insurance coverage for your growing family. 

At Providence, we’re here to help you navigate this newest chapter of your life. Learn what to look for in your insurance plan, how to find coverage if you don’t already have it and where you can look for financial assistance. 

Steps to prepare for your baby’s arrival if you already have insurance

First, review your current health insurance plan to understand exactly what is covered for maternity care and newborn care. Most plans cover routine prenatal care like doctor's visits, but you'll want to verify coverage details with your insurance company such as:

• Deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums for routine and emergency care
• Copays for office visits, tests, procedures and hospital stays
• Coverage limits like the number of approved hospital days for labor and delivery
• Coverages for more complex situations like preterm births, NICU stays, etc.

If you have a high-deductible plan, think about whether you need to start saving money to cover your upcoming out-of-pocket costs. Many plans also require you to receive pre-approval for some maternity services. Planning for future costs and pre-approvals can save you from added stress later. 

Once your baby is born, you'll need to add him or her to your health insurance plan within your plan’s enrollment time period. This is typically 21 to 30 days after delivery, but it’s best to confirm with your care provider to be sure. Review all the different plan options your insurer offers to find the coverage that matches your new family's health care needs. Pay close attention to in-network coverage for well-baby visits and checkups, immunizations, sick child care and pediatric services. You’ll likely use these a lot during your baby’s first year. 

If you’re planning to enroll your baby (or already have enrolled them) in an insurance plan outside of your primary plan (for example, a spouse’s plan), you’ll need to communicate this to your provider and hospital or birthing center to help ensure correct billing for the baby’s care. 

Steps to take for your baby’s arrival if you don’t already have insurance

If you don't have insurance through an employer or other plan, you may qualify for free or low-cost coverage through government programs like Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). 

These programs provide comprehensive coverage for prenatal care, labor and delivery, postpartum care and preventive health care services for babies and children. You can apply through your state's health care marketplace. Eligibility for these services is usually determined by household income. 

Where to seek financial assistance

Many new parents are surprised by how quickly medical bills can pile up. That’s why it's a good idea to explore your financial assistance options in advance:

Providence financial assistance

In keeping with our mission, Providence’s financial assistance program provides free and low-cost care to people who are eligible. This includes people who don’t have health insurance, as well as those who do have insurance but are unable to pay their out-of-pocket costs. Financial assistance through Providence may include:

• Free or low-cost care for those who are eligible
• Discounts for qualified services if you or your baby are uninsured or underinsured 
• Interest-free, long-term payment plans 
• Help identifying and securing health coverage and other assistance (see below) 

Learn more and get help with questions here. 

Medicaid and children’s health insurance programs 

These are comprehensive state-administered programs that help cover costs for those who qualify based on income levels. They can drastically reduce or even eliminate your out-of-pocket responsibility.

State children's health insurance program

Some states offer supplemental health coverage programs. These are specifically for children whose families may not qualify for Medicaid/CHIP but still need assistance affording care.

Nonprofits and other organizations

Groups like Children's Miracle Network Hospitals, United Way, Catholic Charities and others sometimes offer grants or other financial support. These are usually for families with infants in the NICU, babies diagnosed with serious medical conditions or those facing very large medical bills.

Providence is here to help

Between prenatal care, delivery charges, postnatal care and all of your newborn's health care needs, costs can add up quickly. Taking a proactive approach to understanding your insurance benefits and exploring all financial assistance options can give you peace of mind. 

Don't hesitate to seek help from Providence's team of financial counselors, social workers and health care professionals. We're here to guide and support you every step of the way so you can focus on welcoming your new baby without being overwhelmed by medical expenses.

• To add or update your health insurance plan at a Providence facility, call 866-747-2455. 
• To speak with a Providence financial counselor, call 855-229-6466. 
• To learn more about Providence financial assistance, visit providence.org/billing-support/help-paying-your-bill. 

Find a doctor

If you're looking for a doctor or midwife, you can search for one who's right for you using our provider directory.

Download the providence app

It’s all in the app: easily stay connected with Providence and your health. With the Providence app, you can schedule appointments, have virtual visits from the comfort of your own home, get health recommendations personalized for you, access your health records and so much more. Learn more and download the app.

Related resources

Midwives and doulas working together to create your birth dream team

Finding the right pediatrician for your growing family

Providence provides financial assistance to patients in need

This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your health care professional’s instructions.