Pregnant and uninsured, what to do

I’m pregnant and have no health insurance.  My boyfriend bugged out when he heard about the baby, so I won’t be getting any help from him.  How much is it going to cost to have this baby?  And how can I ever pay it – I work two jobs now and barely get by!

Mom To Be

Dear Mom To Be,

In 2010, the cost to deliver a baby ranged from $2,000 for a normal, vaginal delivery at a birth center to $23,000 for a cesarean section with complications at a hospital. If you are in a low-income household, you may qualify for Medicaid.  Medicaid has special rules for pregnant women.  So even if you have applied before and were turned down, try again.  Ask your doctor or a billing staff person at the hospital where you will deliver.  They can help you get in touch with the right agency and get the application forms.

If you do not qualify for Medicaid, explain your situation to your doctor (and the hospital).  They may have other ideas for you, and at the very least, could offer you a payment plan.

Linda Riddell

About Linda Riddell

A published author and health policy analyst with 25 years’ experience, Linda Riddell's goal is to alleviate the widespread ailment of not knowing what your health plan can do for you.