Wisconsin

Health Insurance Options for Pregnancy and Childbirth in Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, several public and private health insurance options help cover pregnancy and childbirth costs. These programs aim to ensure expectant parents can access the necessary prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care services.

1. State Plans and Programs

a. Wisconsin Medicaid (BadgerCare Plus)
BadgerCare Plus provides free or low-cost health coverage to eligible low-income individuals, including pregnant people. Covered services include:

Prenatal and postpartum care
Hospital delivery services
Newborn care up to age one
Eligibility is based on income and household size. Learn more and apply at the Wisconsin Medicaid page or ACCESS Wisconsin.

b. Wisconsin’s Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
Also operated through BadgerCare Plus, this program covers children up to age 19 and pregnant individuals who may not qualify for traditional Medicaid. It includes:
Regular prenatal checkups
Lab services and ultrasounds
Labor and delivery care

1. Employer-Sponsored Insurance Plans

Many Wisconsin employers offer health coverage that includes maternity and newborn care. These plans typically cover:

Prenatal visits and screenings
Hospital labor and delivery
Postpartum and infant checkups
Pregnant individuals may join their own or their spouse’s employer-sponsored plan, especially during special enrollment periods triggered by pregnancy.

1. Health Insurance Marketplace

Through the federal Health Insurance Marketplace, Wisconsinites can compare ACA-compliant plans that must include:
Maternity and newborn care
Emergency services and hospitalization
Mental health care
Financial assistance may be available based on income and household size.

1. Private/Individual Insurance Plans

Private plans purchased outside the marketplace may also offer pregnancy coverage. Benefits vary by insurer, so review plans carefully.

Young adults under 26 can often remain on a parent’s insurance plan, including during pregnancy, depending on plan rules and whether maternity services are included for dependents.

1. Other Assistance Programs

a. Indian Health Service (IHS)
American Indian and Alaska Native residents in Wisconsin may access free or low-cost maternity and childbirth services through tribal health center

b. Wisconsin Title V Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Program
Supports improved access to prenatal care for underserved communities. Services are often provided through local health departments and community agencies.

c. Community Health Centers & Sliding Fee Clinics
Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) in Wisconsin offer prenatal and maternity care on a sliding fee scale.
Find more FQHCs via Wisconsin Primary Health Care Association

For help in navigating available options

Covering Wisconsin: A nonprofit offering enrollment assistance across the state. Visit coveringwi.org or call 1-877-942-6837.

Wisconsin 2-1-1: For referrals to health navigators and support programs. Visit 211wisconsin.org or dial 2-1-1.