How To Avoid Surprise Medical Bills After Childbirth as a New Mom

If you’re a new or expecting mom, one of the first parenting rules is to expect the unexpected. Your little bundles of joy come with expenses that can be overwhelming.

These expenses range from out-of-network providers to billing errors and unanticipated services. Preparing for the financial and emotional impact will help you take the proactive steps needed to thrive as a parent. Here is how to protect yourself against surprise medical bills as a new mom.

1. Understand Common Sources of Surprise Bills

Nobody enjoys spending more money than necessary, but fees that aren’t covered by health insurance are frequent culprits of unexpected charges. Surprise bills are a huge inconvenience for new parents.

If you choose to use out-of-network services, your expenses will accumulate, and out-of-pocket costs can increase based on the services you require before, during, and after delivery.

Be prepared for out-of-network bills by speaking with your insurance company in advance to make sure you know exactly what they cover. One study revealed that over 95,000 families paid surprise bills for anesthesia for vaginal birth. Childbirth hospitalization is one of the most frequent, unexpected costs for new parents.

Medical insurance significantly helps pay for childbirth, but 56% of patients would switch providers for a better paying experience. The fees can be over $18,000 for expecting moms without medical insurance, so speak to your doctor about possible complications and the best medical insurance to consider.

2. Take Proactive Steps During Pregnancy

Since the No Surprises Act (NSA) was enacted on January 1, 2022, many new moms are protected against out-of-pocket expenses. Here’s how to ensure you’re protected:

Stick with in-network facilities: To avoid extra expenditures, visit a hospital in your network. The NSA doesn’t apply to parents who willingly opt for out-of-network doctors, anesthesiologists, neonatologist, or labs.
Ask questions: When visiting your doctor, ask if there will be any out-of-network care and if your baby needs a specialist. If you’re not choosing an out-of-network service, you shouldn’t be charged particular fees.
Look at your bills: If anything seems suspicious, don’t pay it immediately. Instead, call your insurance company to find out what the surplus charges are for. Refer to the NSA if you’re uncertain whether the expenses are your or the hospital’s responsibility.
Keep records: Keep any billing notices to ensure they’re on hand should you inquire with the hospital or your medical insurance.

If you stay one step ahead with your in- and out-of-network bills, you reduce dispute times and know your rights when paying any balance. Being aware is crucial to protecting yourself against surprise medical bills

3. Know Your Rights Under the No Surprises Act

The best time to learn about your rights is before your baby is born. To avoid spending hours trying to find invoices or understanding how the federal law protects you, educate yourself on:

Surprise bill bans: You’re typically responsible for costs incurred on your in-network plan. If the hospital provides out-of-network care, this is generally not your expense. You should check in with your doctor about emergency cases. Usually, you’re billed for these expenses if you choose out-of-network care.
Dispute process: If you received your bill and don’t agree with the charges or amount, you can appeal the charges within 120 days.
State-specific laws: Find out which states adhere to the NSA because some states provide additional protection. The NSA covers several emergency services, excluding ground ambulances and certain facilities.

4. Review and Dispute Bills Post-Delivery if Needed

Knowledge is key in avoiding surprise medical bills after childbirth. If you know the bills, the exact costs, and the surplus costs, you can prevent and dispute bills post-delivery.

Request itemized bills: Look for duplicates or unbundled services.
Compare your bill to your Explanation of Benefits (EOB): Ensure the charges align with insurance agreements.
File an appeal: Use templates from the Patient Advocate Foundation for application disputes. Explain the situation to your insurance company and use case studies if possible. You can also submit an appeal before submitting bills, indicating why specific bills need insurance coverage.
Escalate if needed: If you’re unhappy with the service, submit your complaint to the state insurance departments or the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

5. Use Financial Planning and Assistance Programs

New moms can depend on financial assistance through various government organizations. If you need help to manage costs, submit your application or contact these programs for assistance:

The Pregnant Women Assistance Program: This is a state-funded program that assists pregnant women who meet the income and resource requirements. The program funds you for two years with a cash grant and referral to a Housing and Essential Needs program.
WIC: WIC assists you and your family from when you find out you’re pregnant until your child turns five. WIC offers free nutritional food, breastfeeding support, and referrals to other support programs.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): SNAP adds benefits to your Electronic Benefits Transfer card to provide discounts on food. This benefit is for low-income families who need assistance.

Being Aware Will Protect Your Future

Being a new mom can be overwhelming, but you’re also a superhero to your children. Being aware is the key to avoiding surprise medical bills as a new mom. Be aware of the NSA and your rights to dispute bills, take proactive steps during pregnancy, practice smart financial planning, and choose the right health insurance to ensure you and your family are taken care of and ready for the unexpected.

p.s. Related posts:

10 Ideas to Teach Kids about Money

Personal Finance: Summer Learning Fun for Kids

9 Recession-Proof Financial Tips For Moms

10 Ways To Immediately Cut Electricity Bills In Your School

Protecting Your Loved Ones: What Parents Should Know About Life Insurance

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