Insurance Coverage for Waterbirth

namastemama

Hi all, I wanted to post and ask if anyone had issues getting insurance to cover an in-hospital water birth? I didn't even think to ask the question and now that I have, my insurance thinks that the tub itself may not be covered?? We have a pretty decent policy which covered all of the L&D fees with baby #1 (delivered after induction and with the lineup of epidural, IV meds, etc). Thank you!!

Tash13

Have you asked the hospital if it's going to cost more to do the water birth?  I can't imagine the additional cost being so much that insurance would throw a fit over it.

sbevmc09

At my hospital the labor/delivery rooms have in-room tubs.  I did not have the opportunity to use it last time, but I was never given the impression that it cost to use the tub.  I assumed it would be like any laboring/delivery tool available like the birthing ball, squatting bar, shower, etc.  I can't imagine that they'd charge for use of a tub in the room that you're already paying for any more than they'd pay for you to use their birthing ball, KWIM?  Of course I never like to assume things when it comes to healthcare/insurance so I would probably pose the question to the hospital (or you're provider if they're used to delivering at that facility).  They should easily be able to tell you if there is some sort of separate charge involved.  If there is then find out what the billing code is and your insurance should be able to tell you move about coverage.

RoaneFaery

My hospital states on the website that there is a $100 fee for waterbirths because they use a disposable liner.  I doubt my insurance will cover it so I will just pay for it.