If you are pregnant and enrolled through an employer’s health insurance plan, but then you switch jobs, you may have to wait before joining the new health insurance plan. This may not be an issue if you are early in your pregnancy, but it could be more serious if you are further along.

Can you change insurance plans when you have a baby?

You may be able to get or change health insurance outside Open Enrollment. If you recently had or adopted a baby, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. This means you can apply and enroll in or change Marketplace health plans outside Open Enrollment.

How do I switch from one health insurance to another?

1. Write to your old insurance company requesting a shift.
2. Specify company to which you want to shift the policy.
3. Renew your policy without a break (there is a 30 day grace period if porting is under process)

Is it possible to switch health insurance while pregnant?

Switching health insurance while your pregnant is tricky. If you have private health insurance, then switching coverage while expecting may be either incredibly expensive or not possible. Remember, private health insurance companies can deny you coverage if you are pregnant.

Can a health insurance plan exclude you if you are pregnant?

As long as the new health plan includes maternity benefits — and almost all group plans do — it has to cover your pregnancy once you are eligible for coverage. The insurance plan cannot exclude your pregnancy as a pre-existing condition, according to the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, known as HIPAA.

Is it safe to switch jobs during pregnancy?

Developing a reliable plan to maintain your insurance during pregnancy will keep your peace of mind intact during this critical period. If you are planning on switching jobs during your pregnancy, you can explore a variety of federal insurance programs to ensure that you aren’t left without coverage during this critical period.

Why is it important to have health insurance during pregnancy?

Health coverage makes it easier to get the medical check-ups and screening tests to help keep both you and your baby healthy during pregnancy. If you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period due to a life event like moving or losing other coverage, you may be able to enroll in a Marketplace health plan right now.