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Being a fastidious planner when it comes to all things financial, I am often shocked when others do not even have a clue (or care) about their finances when it comes to something as important as having a baby.
My friend just got laid of from his job of 5 years, while his pregnant wife voluntarily resigned from her job “to be home with the baby” two months ago (and yes – the baby is not even born yet). I am not quite sure why the wife did not work a few more months to collect disability leave and maternity leave and then quit her job. She could have gotten 2-3 months of paid leave if she had tough it out a little longer in the workforce.
Some insurance companies cover every aspect of the pregnancy and delivery, but that is if you have a top notched health insurance (or you are paying high premiums). According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, a typical uncomplicated vaginal birth could cost anywhere between $1,500 to $7,900 in out-of-pocket expenses. A typical uncomplicated C-section could cost anywhere between $2,200 – $9,800 in out-of-pocket expenses.
What if there are complications? For a complicated C-section, you are looking at $21,200. Just delivering the baby is expensive! And this does not include the cost associated with prenatal care and wellness visits after the birth.
So the lesson here is to make sure to look through your health insurance manual and check your maximum out-of-pocket expenses months before you plan to get pregnant and especially if you are of child bearing age. Do not be like my husband, airily waving your hand in the air, proclaiming that all health insurance are about the same. They are not. (Sometimes I wonder if I am playing into his hand. Since that statement, I basically spend hours every Open Enrollment season diligently comparing the group health insurance plans offered by his employer and my employer.)
As for my friend, they would probably make COBRA payments from his severance package and savings . But if things do get worst, there is always the local Planned Parenthood.
Until next time and thanks for stopping by Small Steps to Health.
Photo by: Raúl Hernández González.
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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Nowadays it’s almost impossible to have a baby if you don’t have good health insurance. I feel bad for those who don’t and are surprised by the high costs.
@dental – the cost are unbelievable! what happen to the days when babies were born at home where a doctor shows up when there are complications? thanks for the comment dental.