Your Complete Guide to Medicaid Benefits During Pregnancy

October 10, 2024

Pregnancy is an exciting and special time for many, but it can also cause feelings of worry. You might be happy thinking about the baby growing inside you and all the fun things to come. At the same time, it’s normal to worry about how your body will change and what it will be like to care for a new baby.

Feeling excited and nervous is okay—this is a big adventure, and you’re not alone. Help is Here with MPC.

Can I get Maryland Medicaid if I’m pregnant?

You may be eligible for free healthcare through Maryland Medicaid. Medicaid pays for healthcare for people who cannot afford it.

To be eligible, you must:

• Live in Maryland
• Be pregnant
• Meet certain income limits
• Have any immigration status, including Resident, TPS, DACA, DAPA, Refugee, or Asylee

What healthcare services can I get during my pregnancy with Medicaid?

Pregnancy benefits can include the following health services:

• Doctor visits
• Dental care
• Hospital care
• Hospital stay when you have your baby
• Lab work and tests
• Prescription drugs
• Mental health care
• Help to stop smoking, drinking alcohol, or using drugs
• Rides to and from medical appointments

How do I enroll in Medicaid?

You can enroll online or by phone. You can also visit your local health department or social services office to apply.

To enroll:

• Online: MarylandHealthConnection.gov
• By phone: 855-642-8572

Can I get Medicaid benefits if I’m not a US citizen?

The Healthy Babies Equity Act provides Medicaid to pregnant people with any immigration status. This includes Resident, TPS, DACA, DAPA, Refugee, Asylee, and those without an immigration status.

Can I choose my doctor?

You can choose your healthcare provider through your Medicaid Managed Care Organization. When picking a provider, you can see a doctor or midwife. Doctors who specialize in pregnancy and childbirth are obstetricians. A midwife is another option. Midwives are healthcare providers trained to care for women. They care for women during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum.

How do I find providers that accept my Medicaid insurance?

Contact your Medicaid Managed Care Organization for information about healthcare providers.

MPC members can visit the Find a Provider page or My MPC Source to find a healthcare provider and much more. My MPC Source is a one-stop shop for anything a member could need. This can include healthcare ID cards and benefits questions.

How long is Medicaid coverage available during my pregnancy?

Medicaid covers you from the start of your pregnancy through 4 months postpartum. Postpartum is the time after your baby is born.

What other resources are available to help pregnant Medicaid members?

Maryland Medicaid provides several programs and services to support healthy pregnancies and babies. These programs can include:

• Home Visiting Services
  Home visits provide support and teach parents parenting skills before and after birth. The type of home visit and trained professional who comes to your home is based on your family’s specific needs.

• Doula Support
  You can access a Doula, a trained professional who makes prenatal visits (often in your home). A Doula will:
  • discuss birth procedures and breastfeeding
  • attend your labor and delivery
  • make postpartum visits
• MOM Case Management
  For pregnant people who have opioid use disorder or a history of using opioids, this program offers case management. Case management connects you to health, treatment, and recovery care services.

• Dental Coverage: Maryland Healthy Smiles
  Dental care is an important part of your care when you are pregnant. Poor oral health during pregnancy can lead to health problems for you and your baby. Visiting a dentist when you are pregnant is safe and a good choice. Dental coverage is available through Maryland Healthy Smile by calling 855-934-9812.

 

MPC also provides pregnant people with these free helpful resources for their pregnancy journey:

• MyVirtualMPC

  With MyVirtualMPC, members can talk with a doctor from anywhere 24 hours, 7 days a week. You can text, share images, or video chat with a doctor from your phone or computer. Just download the app from the App Store or Google Play. Bilingual help is available.

• Pacify

  Pacify provides breastfeeding guidance and support. No appointment is required, and you can call as often as needed. Bilingual help is available.

  Using the app, you can also connect with Maryland Physicians Care Case Managers. They are available 8 am-5 pm Monday through Friday by phone to help you.

What should I do after my baby is born?

After your baby is born, it is important to:

1. Visit the pediatrician within the first 7 days of your baby being born.
2. Get your baby’s social security number within 30 days of giving birth.
3. Enroll your baby in Medicaid insurance within the first 45 days of your baby’s birth.

How do I make sure Medicaid covers my baby?

To enroll your baby in Medicaid coverage through MPC, visit www.marylandhealthconnection.gov.

When you apply for Medicaid, you will be asked to choose a Managed Care Organization (MCO). Make sure to select Maryland Physicians Care.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland Medicaid and Pregnancy and Postpartum

Does Maryland Medicaid cover labor and delivery costs?

Medicaid covers the cost of your pregnancy care and labor and delivery.

Does Maryland Medicaid support postpartum care and mental health services?

Maryland Medicaid offers Doula services and home visits. These services continue after pregnancy to support you and your baby. These services also teach you about mental health and stress control.

Will I have coverage for prenatal vitamins?

Medically necessary pregnancy-related services, including prenatal vitamins, are covered by Maryland Medicaid.

Can I get a breast pump through Medicaid?

To get a free breast pump, contact your Medicaid or healthcare provider. You should contact the provider who delivered your baby.

Can I get WIC when I’m enrolled in Medicaid?

Yes, you can get WIC (Women, Infants, and Children). WIC is a government program designed to help people eat well, stay healthy, and get breastfeeding support.

Are you missing out on free health care?

Medicaid and Maryland Children’s Health Program (MCHP) offer free or low-cost health insurance coverage to adults under 65 and uninsured children under 19. The only way to know if you are eligible for Medicaid is to apply.

You can apply:

• online at www.marylandhealthconnection.gov
• by downloading the free mobile app, EnrollMHC
• by visiting a local connector entity, health department, or department of social service
• by calling 1-855-642-8572 (TTY: 1-855-642-8573)

When you apply for Medicaid, you will be asked to choose a Managed Care Organization (MCO).

Make sure to select Maryland Physicians Care.

 
 
Sources:

1. https://health.maryland.gov/mmcp/medicaid-mch-initiatives/Pages/healthybabies.aspx
2. https://www.marylandphysicianscare.com/healthy-babies/
3. https://health.maryland.gov/mmcp/medicaid-mch-initiatives/Pages/Home.aspx
4. https://www.marylandphysicianscare.com/members/pregnancy-related-support-services/
5. https://health.maryland.gov/mmcp/Documents/Factsheet7_OBGYN.pdf