Delaware

1. State Plans and Programs

a. Delaware Medicaid
Delaware's Medicaid program provides health coverage for low-income pregnant individuals and children. Covered services include:
Prenatal and postpartum care
Delivery services
Hospital stays
Infant care up to one year after birth

Eligibility is based on income and household size. Pregnant women and infants under age 1 qualify for Medicaid with family income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level, with pregnant women counting as two (or more) family members.
Notably, Delaware has extended postpartum Medicaid coverage to 12 months, ensuring ongoing healthcare support for new mothers.

b. Delaware Healthy Children Program (CHIP)
Delaware's Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), known as the Delaware Healthy Children Program, offers low-cost health insurance for children under age 19. While CHIP primarily focuses on children, pregnant individuals may qualify for Medicaid under the expanded income guidelines.
To apply

1. Employer-Sponsored Plans

Many employers in Delaware offer health insurance that includes maternity and newborn care. Coverage typically encompasses prenatal visits, ultrasounds, labor and delivery, and postpartum care. Employees are encouraged to consult their human resources department or benefits coordinator for specific plan details. In addition to Employer Sponsored Insurance, Delaware has implemented the Healthy Delaware Families Act, which mandates paid family and medical leave for eligible employees. Starting January 1, 2026, employers with 10 or more employees must provide up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave per application year. This benefit covers 80% of the employee's average weekly wages, up to a maximum of $900 per week. Learn More

1. Health Insurance Marketplace

Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), all marketplace insurance plans are required to cover maternity and newborn care as essential health benefits. Delaware residents can compare and enroll in plans through the federal marketplace at Healthcare.gov. Financial assistance may be available based on income and household size. Learn More

1. Private/Individual Insurance Plans

Private health insurance purchased outside the marketplace may also provide coverage for maternity and childbirth care. Benefits can vary, so it's essential to review individual plan details. Additionally, individuals under 26 may be covered under a parent's health insurance plan, depending on the plan's dependent coverage policies. Learn More

1. Other Assistance Programs

a. Managed Care Organizations (MCOs)
Delaware contracts with MCOs to provide Medicaid services, including maternity care. For example, Highmark Health Options offers comprehensive maternity benefits under standard Medicaid, along with additional services to support expectant mothers. Learn More

b. Enhanced Maternity Programs
Some health plans offer enhanced maternity programs to support expectant mothers.

For assistance navigating insurance options, Delaware residents can contact local health navigators or Certified Application Counselors through organizations like the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services or the Delaware Department of Insurance.

By exploring these options, expectant parents in Delaware can access the necessary medical services to support a healthy pregnancy and childbirth experience.