The average cost of child birth today can range anywhere from $9,000-$13,000 (not including complications with pregnancy). For this very reason, finding a health insurance policy with maternity benefits becomes crucial when bearing the inevitable medical expenses. Furthermore, it is important to point out that not every carrier or health insurance policy offers maternity coverage. If you are looking to have kids, clarify that maternity benefits are available with your agent.

What maternity benefits are available through individual health insurance?

-A common approach incorporated by carriers when offering maternity benefits is to create a separate maternity deductible. This deductible functions similar to any other deductible; namely, after the deductible has been satisfied by medical costs, any expenses thereafter will be covered. The maternity deductible will vary between state and carrier.

-Other carriers may offer monetary compensations towards medical expenses incurred with child birth. Essentially, individuals can add a rider to a policy which affords them “X” amount of money towards the cost of delivery. Such a rider is most beneficial for individuals who may want to start a family in a year or two. With every year an individual pays for a maternity rider, the financial compensation from the insurance company increases.

Can individuals find coverage if they are currently pregnant?

-Unfortunately, most major medical carriers are unwilling to insure you if you are currently pregnant. Accordingly, it is very important to acquire maternity coverage prior to pregnancy. Even if you have maternity coverage in place, most carriers will institute a 90 day way period from one’s effective date to the time of pregnancy. If you are pregnant without coverage-look into state sponsored programs that assist with pregnancy.