New Hampshire

In New Hampshire, several health insurance options are available to support individuals during pregnancy and childbirth. These include state programs, employer-sponsored plans, the Health Insurance Marketplace, private insurance, and other assistance programs.

1. State Plans and Programs

a. Medicaid (NH Medicaid)
New Hampshire's Medicaid program offers comprehensive coverage for low-income pregnant individuals. As of October 1, 2023, pregnant individuals enrolled in Medicaid are eligible for continuous coverage through their pregnancy and for 12 months postpartum, regardless of any changes in circumstances.

Covered services include

• Prenatal and postpartum care;
• Labor and delivery services;
• Hospital stays; and
• Infant care up to one year after birth.

For more information, visit the NH Medicaid Benefits Overview.

b. New Hampshire Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
Administered as part of New Hampshire Medicaid, CHIP provides low-cost or free health coverage for children and teens up to age 19, as well as for pregnant women.

Eligibility

• Children and teens up to age 19;
• Pregnant individuals; and
• Household incomes up to 323% of the federal poverty level.

For more details, visit the NH CHIP page.

1. Employer-Sponsored Plans

Many employers offer health insurance that includes maternity and newborn care. Coverage typically includes prenatal visits, ultrasounds, labor and delivery, and postpartum care. Pregnant employees can enroll in coverage through their own employer or a spouse’s job.

1. Health Insurance Marketplace

Through the Health Insurance Marketplace, pregnant 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 Period

• Annual open enrollment runs from November 1 to January 15.
• Outside of this period, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period due to a qualifying life event, such as pregnancy.

For more information, visit the New Hampshire Insurance Department's Marketplace page.

1. Private/Individual Insurance Plans

Private health insurance purchased outside the marketplace may also provide coverage, though benefits can vary. Pregnant dependents may also be covered under their parents' health insurance plan if that plan offers dependent coverage.

1. Other Assistance Programs

a. Family Planning Services
The New Hampshire Family Planning Program provides low to no-cost sexual and reproductive health care services and information to all individuals in need. Services include birth control, annual exams, pregnancy testing and counseling, referrals to prenatal care, STI and HIV testing and treatment, and breast and cervical cancer screening.

b. Sliding Fee Scale Clinics
Federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) and community health clinics offer maternity care at reduced costs based on income. For example, Mid-State Health Center provides services on a sliding scale and assists with applications for health insurance and prescription assistance.