Home Birth: How to Fund Your Dream Birth Plan with a Venteur Health Wallet

Humans have been giving birth at home for thousands of years. The female body has perfectly adapted to this process and a trained midwife, doula, and partner will ensure the mother is physically and mentally prepared for childbirth. 

According to the CDC, there were 51,642 home births in 2021, an increase of 13% from 2020 (45,646). This increase followed a 19% rise in the number of home births from 2019 (38,506) to 2020. So if you choose a home birth, you’re not alone. 

Will My Health Insurance Pay for a Home Birth?

One of the most daunting aspects of home birth is financial. Will your insurance pay for a home birth? You’ll have to read the fine print, but most will not. Some will cover the services of a midwife or have a midwifery as part of their health services, but otherwise you are on your own. 

This is a perfect example of how a Health Wallet from Venteur can help you make a life-changing choice for your family. 

Coverage for a home birth can depend on several factors, including the specifics of the plan set by the employer and IRS regulations. Generally, the following expenses related to a home birth can be covered:

• Midwifery Services: Fees for a licensed midwife who assists with the home birth.
• Prenatal Care: Costs associated with prenatal visits and care a healthcare professional provides.
• Postnatal Care: Expenses for postnatal check-ups and care for both the mother and the newborn.
• Birthing Supplies and Equipment: Necessary supplies and equipment for a home birth, if prescribed or deemed necessary by a healthcare provider.
• Laboratory Tests: Any required lab tests during the prenatal or postnatal period.
• Ultrasound and Imaging: Costs of ultrasounds or other imaging services as part of prenatal care.
• Prescription Medications: Medications prescribed during the prenatal or postnatal period.
• Specialist Consultations: If a specialist's advice or consultation is needed during the pregnancy or for the birth.
• Emergency Transportation: If there's a need for emergency transportation to a hospital during the birth process.
• Postpartum Care Services: Including lactation consulting and postpartum depression screening, if these are part of the healthcare plan.

However, it's important to note that the specific coverage and limits can vary based on the employer's ICHRA plan. Employees considering using their ICHRA for a home birth should consult their plan documents or contact their HR department for detailed information on what is covered under their particular ICHRA plan.