Medicaid for Pregnant Women

Pregnant women whose income exceeds 133% of the Federal Poverty level may qualify under “expanded eligibility” for Medicaid services under the “medically needy” classification even if they wouldn’t normally qualify for Medicaid.

Medicaid is a state-and federally-funded government health program for people with lower incomes, elderly people, people with disabilities, and some families with children. Each state administers its own Medicaid program, and recipients must be American citizens or legal permanent residents who fall into certain qualifying categories. Pregnant women comprise one such category.

Every state offers Medicaid or similar coverage to help pregnant women receive adequate prenatal and postpartum care. Qualifying under the “categorically needy” classification, all pregnant women whose income level is at or below 133% of the Federal Poverty level are eligible for Medicaid services. Contact your local Medicaid office for exact dollar figures.

If you’re pregnant, your local Medicaid office can confirm which documents you’ll need to submit in order to establish your Medicaid eligibility. Typically, you’ll be expected to provide:

Proof of pregnancy
Citizenship/residency documentation
Identification documentation such as a birth certificate or Social Security card
Proof of income

If you’re awarded Medicaid, you’ll receive information about which medical providers in your area accept Medicaid. As long as you receive covered services from Medicaid providers, your medical costs will be covered by Medicaid.

All medical costs related to pregnancy are covered, and coverage will continue until 60 days after childbirth.

According to the American Pregnancy Association, pregnancy-related care received before you applied for Medicaid may also be covered under “Presumptive Eligibility.” Contact your local Medicaid office to learn whether you may qualify for presumptive eligibility.

If you’re pregnant and in need of Medicaid services, you should apply as early as possible. Although Medicaid offices generally try to qualify pregnant women as quickly as possible, the process can take several weeks. If you need health services before your application is fully processed, ask your local Medicaid office whether you can be issued a temporary Medicaid card.

Even if you don’t appear to qualify for Medicaid services in your state, be sure to contact your local Medicaid office if you need healthcare assistance. There may be other programs in your state to help people who don’t fully qualify for Medicaid, and your local Medicaid office can advise you about other options.

Be sure to learn about all the healthcare opportunities available to you. If you have questions about Medicare, Medicare supplement plans, or Medicare Advantage, contact a licensed, bonded MedicareMall representative and let us lead you with confidence through the Medicare maze!

Has Medicaid ever helped you through pregnancy? If so, tell us about your experience!