Since birth, newborns start accruing costly health care expenses, which is why it’s imperative to have health care benefits. Having sound coverage allows the parent to maintain financial security and give the baby the proper care they require.
The first 30 days after a baby’s birth are typically covered under the mother’s medical insurance. Then, the coverage terminates on the 31st day. Notably, childbirth is considered a qualifying life event, which allows the infant to be added as a dependent to the parent’s health plan during a specified amount of time (usually 60 days following the qualifying life event).
Failure to enroll the infant during the special enrollment period (through the qualifying life event) will result in the child having no medical coverage. If this happens, the next chance to join the parent’s health plan will be during open enrollment. A lack of coverage for the infant can result in costly medical bills for the parents.
It is important to note that the infant is usually able to be added to either parent’s health insurance, even if they are unmarried. Depending on the type of plan and state regulations, it can be harder for the infant to be added to the father’s plan if unmarried.
If you have any questions about qualifying life events or how to add a dependent, please contact our dedicated ESR team.