Want to save on maternity costs? This section will show you how, whether you have maternity health insurance or not.
Maternity delivery costs can range anywhere from $3,500 for normal delivery to $20,000 for cesarean section and varies greatly depending on the state where you live and the hospital you choose.
Fortunately, there are ways to save money on maternity costs.
The fastest way to do this is to pre-negotiate a fixed rate for the maternity services you will need.
Negotiate? Absolutely!
Practically every hospital and health care provider is used to the fact that many people, especially today, lack maternity coverage.
Don’t wait for the hospital bills. Negotiate maternity costs in advance.
Here's what you can do:
Call the hospital where you intend to deliver. Call several hospitals, if possible and if you have a choice. This way you could also compare maternity/delivery costs, and learn more about each facility’s
services.
Tell them that you do not have maternity coverage. Or if you do, let them know.
Ask for a fixed or pre-paid rate for delivery. Find out what it includes. Discuss and determine a schedule of payment.
Most obstetricians have a discounted rate if you are paid up by a certain date – usually the 7th month. Talk to your doctor. Ask for these discounts.
In case you were not given a discounted rate (in most cases you would if you follow the steps above), ask the hospital administration for any financing support. They may be able to point you to other resources that
offer financial assistance.
Go ahead. Negotiate. Don't be shy about asking for discounts or negotiating. People do this all the time, especially for major expenses. All it takes is a few phone calls...and perhaps a couple of face-to-face meetings with your providers. Rest assured, it's worth the effort.
Planning and negotiating in advance is important. It will enable you to prepare the necessary funds to cover your maternity costs, reduce your anxieties, and help you focus on your health and that of your baby's.
TIP: Check on each plan and look at the benefits carefully. Scroll down and look for "Maternity Coverage" and find out what the plan provides as far as pre and post-natal visits as well as labor and hospital stay.
