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Iowa

Pregnancy, birth and the first year in Iowa, in 14 topics: from who runs maternal and child health to what happens at your newborn's screening.

Insurance

In Iowa, several health insurance options are available to help cover the costs of pregnancy and childbirth care:

  1. Iowa Medicaid:

Iowa Medicaid provides comprehensive health coverage for eligible pregnant women. As of January 1, 2025, significant changes have been implemented, Postpartum care coverage has been extended from 60 days to 12 months after the pregnancy ends, ensuring continuous healthcare support during this critical period. Learn More.
Eligibility: To qualify for pregnancy and postpartum Medicaid coverage, family income must be at or below 215% of the federal poverty level (FPL). Learn More

b. Healthy and Well Kids in Iowa (Hawki)
Hawki is Iowa's version of the federal Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), providing health insurance for children and families who don't qualify for Medicaid and can't otherwise afford coverage.

c. Wellpoint

Wellpoint's "Taking Care of Baby and Me®" program offers resources to support well-being during pregnancy. Members can access a Pregnancy and Beyond Resource Guide, health libraries on pregnancy and childbirth topics, and enroll in Healthy Rewards for attending prenatal and postpartum appointments.

d. Iowa Total Care

Through the "Start Smart for Your Baby®" program, Iowa Total Care offers advice and resources for pregnant members and new parents. The program provides support throughout pregnancy and after the baby is born, including assistance in finding a provider, mental health support, and breastfeeding resources.

  1. Employer-Sponsored Plans

Many employers in Iowa offer health insurance plans that include maternity and newborn care. These plans typically cover:
Prenatal visits
Ultrasounds
Labor and delivery
Postpartum care
Coverage details and costs can vary, so it's important to review your specific plan's benefits.

  1. Health Insurance Marketplace

Through the Health Insurance Marketplace, individuals can explore various health insurance plans that cover pregnancy and childbirth. Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), all marketplace insurance plans are required to cover maternity and newborn care as essential health benefits. Iowans can compare and enrol in plans through the federal marketplace at Healthcare.gov.

  1. Private/Individual Insurance Plans

Private health insurance purchased outside the marketplace may also provide coverage for pregnancy and childbirth, though benefits can vary. It's important to review the specifics of any plan to ensure it meets your needs.
Additionally, young adults under 26 may be covered under a parent's health insurance plan if it offers dependent coverage, which can include maternity care. Learn More

  1. Other Assistance Programs

a. Indian Health Service (IHS)
American Indian and Alaska Native individuals in Iowa may be eligible for healthcare services through the Indian Health Service (IHS) or tribal health organizations, which include maternity and childbirth care. Learn More

b. Sliding Fee Scale Clinics
Federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) and community health clinics in Iowa offer maternity care at reduced costs based on income. Learn More
These clinics offer services on a sliding fee scale based on income and family size.

Looking for an organization near you in Iowa?

Hospitals, birth centers, doulas, WIC clinics, milk banks and more are listed by county. Enter a ZIP code or city to see yours.