|
|
oh baby!
Maternity Insurance
For so many women the thought of having a baby brings warm,
fuzzy thoughts of a tiny, cuddly bundle of joy. The warm, fuzzy thoughts can
quickly turn to panic once you start thinking about how you are going to pay
for your new baby. For some women, they are fortunate enough to have great
healthcare coverage that covers most, if not all of their prenatal, delivery
and post-delivery expenses. For some, maternity insurance is a viable
option.
The subject of maternity insurance can be very tricky. There is so much
information available and of course it also depends on what state you live
in to fully know all of the options available to you. We'll try to walk you
through it to give you some general information and possible options as well
as other resources if your questions are not answered.
Planning to Get Pregnant?
If you are not currently pregnant but are planning to be, it is crucial you
check your current health insurance coverage. Some employers do not offer
maternity as a part of their regular healthcare plan. Some employers offer
it, but at an additional cost to you. Also look out if you are switching
jobs or health insurance. That can have a direct effect on what may or may
not be covered on your new plan.
How They Work
Most of the maternity insurance companies out there have a network of
doctors and other facilities they work with. Just like regular insurance
companies may operate -- they have specific doctors you have to go to in
order to be covered by the insurance. You pay a premium just like you would
any other kids of insurance. Some maternity insurance companies refer to
this as a "yearly membership" and it depends on how you pay it. Some do it
all at once, while others you can do the month to month thing.
Be Thorough
As always with anything you research, be thorough. Always check the fine
print. Look for things that might not seem quite right. Research the company
you are thinking of doing business with. Check the Better Business Bureau.
On a more positive note, also be sure to check additional benefits you may
receive with maternity insurance. Some companies also include benefits that
include well child checks until your child turns a certain age.
Is it For Me?
Unfortunately there is no cut and dry answer. Make sure you are practical in
your decision: Is it practical to use the providers in this insurance
company's network? If there isn't anyone close to you or you have a
particular doctor you want to use, you may want to consider another option.
If you are pretty flexible then it might be a perfect fit for you.
|
|
