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Minnesota

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

Insurance

In Minnesota, several health insurance options are available to assist with the costs of pregnancy and childbirth care. These options include state programs, employer-sponsored plans, the Health Insurance Marketplace, private insurance plans, and additional assistance programs.

State Plans and Programs

a. Medical Assistance (MA) for Pregnant Individuals

Minnesota's Medicaid program, known as Medical Assistance (MA), provides health coverage for low-income pregnant individuals during pregnancy and up to 12 months postpartum. Covered services include prenatal and postpartum care, enhanced prenatal services for high-risk pregnancies, labor and delivery services, hospital stays, and infant care.
Eligibility: Pregnant individuals with income at or below 278% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines may qualify for MA coverage, which extends from conception through the 12-month postpartum period.

How to Apply

Apply online through MNsure.
Contact the MNsure Contact Center at 651-539-2099 or 855-366-7873.

b. MinnesotaCare

For those who do not qualify for MA and lack health insurance, MinnesotaCare offers coverage for individuals with household incomes up to 200% of the federal poverty level. Services include prenatal visits, prenatal vitamins, labor and delivery, and postpartum care.
How to Apply: Apply through MNsure.

  1. Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance

Many employers offer plans that cover prenatal, delivery, and postpartum services. These plans typically cover prenatal visits, ultrasounds, labor and delivery, and postpartum care. If you or your spouse have access to employer-sponsored coverage, review the plan details to understand the maternity benefits provided.
Additionally, consult your employer's human resources department to understand your plan's maternity coverage.

  1. Health Insurance Marketplace Plans:

Through MNsure, Minnesota's 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. Enrollment is typically available during the open enrollment period or through a special enrollment period triggered by a qualifying life event.
Special Enrollment Period: Pregnancy qualifies you for a Special Enrollment Period to enroll in or adjust Marketplace health plans outside the standard enrollment window.
All Marketplace plans cover maternity and newborn care as essential health benefits. Depending on income, you may be eligible for subsidies to reduce premium and out-of-pocket costs. Learn more
Contact the MNsure Contact Center at 651-539-2099 or 855-366-7873.

  1. Private/Individual Insurance Plans

Private health insurance purchased outside the marketplace may also provide coverage for pregnancy and childbirth, though benefits can vary. Additionally, if you are under 26 years old, you may be eligible for coverage under a parent's health insurance plan, which may include maternity benefits. It's important to review the specific terms of any private plan to understand the extent of coverage.

  1. Health Plans with Additional Maternity Support:

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota: Offers a Healthy Pregnancy program providing extra benefits for prenatal and postpartum care.
UCare: Provides the MOMS Program, offering resources and support throughout pregnancy and after childbirth.
Medica: Offers a Pregnancy Program with personalized support and guidance from registered nurses.

Assess Your Eligibility: Determine your eligibility for MA, MinnesotaCare, or Marketplace plans based on your income and residency.
Use MNsure to apply for MA or MinnesotaCare, or to explore Marketplace options.

  • Review Employer Benefits: Discuss maternity coverage options with your employer's HR department.
  • Consult Healthcare Providers: Engage with prenatal care providers to understand recommended services and associated costs.
  1. Other Assistance Programs

a. Emergency Medical Assistance (EMA)

For individuals who do not qualify for MA or MinnesotaCare due to immigration status or other factors, EMA provides coverage for emergency medical conditions, including labor and delivery services.

b. Sliding Fee Scale Clinics

Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) and community health clinics offer maternity care at reduced costs based on income. These clinics provide services on a sliding fee scale, making healthcare more affordable for low-income individuals and families. Learn more

c. Title X Clinics

Title X clinics offer confidential reproductive health care, including prenatal services, on a sliding scale based on income. These clinics are available across the state to support individuals in need of affordable care. Learn more

It's essential to review all available options to ensure comprehensive coverage for your pregnancy and childbirth care in Minnesota.

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