Pursuing a higher education for many people means establishing their independence. For some, college is the first time they’ve been on their own. It also means exploring new things as you seriously contemplate adulthood. However, an unexpected pregnancy might not have been in your four-year plan. After carefully considering your options, perhaps you feel parenting is best for you. But maybe you’re worried about affording insurance as a pregnant college student. Doing research can seem overwhelming, but where can you go for help with planning?
It’s normal for pregnant women to have questions about how to navigate the world of health insurance. Avenue Women’s Center provides reliable information and confidential services at each of our Chicagoland centers. Our caring staff will take the time to meet with you and clear up any confusion about your pregnancy options. During a private consultation appointment, we can guide you through taking your next steps.
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What Health Insurance Options Do I Have as a Pregnant College Student?
Dealing with insurance can be a confusing process, especially if this isn’t something you’ve ever had to worry about before. If you’re pregnant and in college, you may want to enlist some help. Chatting with someone who has experience can help make the process easier. Your older friends, family members, school counselors, a pregnancy consultant, and a local or state government office are some resources that can provide you with information.
Here are a few terms to understand if you’re looking into health insurance:
Premium: This is usually a monthly payment, and it’s the amount you pay for coverage.
Deductible: Before your insurance pays for a service, this is the amount you typically have to pay out of pocket.
Copay: Once a deductible has been met, a copay is what you pay upfront for a service.
Staying On Your Parents’ Insurance: Understandably, the thought of telling your parents about the pregnancy might make you anxious. But if you’re under the age of 26, you may be eligible to stay on your parents’ plan. This may be the least complicated choice. You won’t have to worry about purchasing health insurance yourself. Staying on your parents’ plan can also mean less changes to your current healthcare providers. If you’re going to an out-of-state college, then you may want to see if your parents’ insurance has in-network providers where you are.
Of course, telling your parents your unexpected pregnancy news may be a challenge. How much of their help do you think you might need? Before sharing with them, it can be helpful to practice what you want to say first. You also have the option of bringing a professional resource in for moderation, such as a pregnancy consultant or professional counselor.
Student Health Insurance Plan: Some schools offer a student health plan. You may want to ask your college’s administration office to see what expenses are covered. Insurance programs at schools tend to vary. Sometimes they’re set up through an exterior company. Alternatively, they may be set up by the school. If the college is self-insured, there may be a more limited coverage of services. It may also be possible for you to use financial aid to pay for insurance. In addition, you can check with the school to see if coverage is dependent on full-time student status.
Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs): FQHCs are known for serving clients regardless of their ability to pay. These medical centers generally offer a variety of services, including pregnancy care.
Medicaid: Medicaid is a government-sponsored health insurance program. Pregnant women can typically rely on it to pay for prenatal or postpartum care. Each state generally has their own set of eligibility guidelines. While these standards may vary from state to state, the application process is often the same. You can apply for Medicaid online, through a written application, or by phone. If you have questions, contact your local Medicaid office.
Pregnant and Researching Health Insurance
It may seem like a lot of information to take in. But doing research and asking questions is often worth it. When there’s confusion, that can be stressful. There’s nothing wrong with asking for help when looking into health insurance. Planning takes time, and the right resources can assist you with working toward a positive long-term outcome.
Are you concerned about affording insurance as a pregnant student? Avenue Women’s Center offers support and insight for your pregnancy-related decisions. We provide relevant information about your health and where to access further resources. Our expert staff listens to your unique situation and assists you with formulating a plan. Within a nonjudgmental environment, we’re here to partner with you and help you find answers.
Schedule a time to meet with us today!
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Reference:
Medical Billing and Coding Certification. Understanding Health Insurance for College Students. Retrieved from: https://www.medicalbillingandcoding.org/health-insurance-guide/college-students/
The information provided here is general in nature. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a medical professional. Before any medical procedure, it is imperative that you discuss your personal medical history, risks, and concerns with your doctor. If you have questions during or after a procedure, your doctor should be immediately contacted. Avenue Women’s Center is not an emergency center. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as bleeding and/or pain, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your physician, go to an emergency room, or call 911.