Health Insurance Options for Infants

Ensuring that your baby is adequately insured is important. After all, your newborn will probably see a doctor more often than anyone else in your family. HealthMarkets can walk you through health insurance options for infants so that you’re prepared before your baby arrives. You can even search, compare, and apply for a plan with HealthMarkets as you evaluate health insurance for your baby.

Why Do You Need Health Insurance for Babies?

Providing healthcare for your newborn baby can be expensive. Newborn visits are usually scheduled at least twice during their first two weeks, and then once at 1, 2, 4, 6, and 9 months old – and that’s only if they are healthy.¹ During this schedule, infants frequently receive examinations, checkups, immunizations, and special medications. Health insurance for your baby can help you save on out-of-pocket costs for these important newborn expenses.

How Does Health Insurance Work When You Have a Baby?

If you already have coverage, contact your insurance company first. Your baby won’t be added automatically, so you need to let them know about your new bundle of joy. If you have work-based coverage, or you have an Affordable Care Act (ACA) plan, having a new baby is considered a qualifying life event.

A qualifying life event qualifies you and your newborn for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). During the SEP, you can add your baby to your existing plan. You can also change your plan or purchase new coverage. In some cases, changes to your coverage or household may qualify you for a subsidy to lower the cost of your health insurance.

Act Quickly to Access Health Insurance Options for Infants

There is a limited window for adding newborns to your current health insurance policy, usually within 60 days of the date of birth.² According to the U.S. Department of Labor, enrolling within 30 days will provide coverage retroactive to your newborn’s date of birth.³ If that deadline isn’t met, you could have to wait until the next Open Enrollment Period to apply for health insurance for your baby.

Can I Get Health Insurance for Just My Baby?

Yes, you can get health insurance for just your baby. There are a few options to consider regarding health insurance for your baby. First, you can purchase an individual health plan and only include your baby in the coverage. Your baby also may be eligible for free or low-cost coverage if you fall below specific income limits. This coverage is provided through Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Check to see what level of Medicaid and CHIP coverage is provided by your state to see if you qualify.

How Do You Get Insurance for a Newborn?

You can compare health insurance options for your baby with HealthMarkets. HealthMarkets’ innovative FitScore® can help you review your options and find the insurance plan that’s right for your needs and budget. Simply answer a few quick questions, and the FitScore can rank plans for you in a personalized list based on your responses. Compare plans with HealthMarkets today!