Healthcare in Pregnancy

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to commonly asked questions about healthcare during pregnancy here.

• What is the income limit?

  Your household size helps determine the income limit. Pregnant individuals and children often have higher income limits. Additionally, if eligible, individuals can qualify for Medical Assistance coverage even if they have other primary insurance.

  Please refer to current DHS Income and Asset Guidelines.

• How much does Medical Assistance cost?

  There is no cost, no copays, and no monthly premium.

• How long does it take to apply and get approved for Medical Assistance?

  Paper applications for pregnant people are to be processed within 15 working days. If you apply online, the approval may be quicker. Note that processing times can vary by county. Additionally, processing agencies may ask for additional information before the application can be processed. It’s important to watch the mail for notices requesting additional information and to respond promptly.

  Contact us at 651-304-8080 if you would like help with your application. You can also find helpful resources about Minnesota’s healthcare programs here.

• When does my coverage start?

  If you are pregnant and do not have Medical Assistance and are applying, your coverage typically starts on the first day of the month you became pregnant, or up to three months before the month your application is submitted, whichever is later.

• Can I still get Medical Assistance if my pregnancy ends before I apply?

  Yes, you may still qualify for Medical Assistance if your pregnancy ended recently (such as through miscarriage or other reasons). You might be eligible for coverage that can start up to three months before the month you apply, depending on your income and household situation.

  Your Medical Assistance coverage will continue for 12 months after your pregnancy ends, including through miscarriage or other reasons.

• What happens to my Medical Assistance if my pregnancy ends?

  Your Medical Assistance coverage will continue for 12 months after your pregnancy ends, including through miscarriage or other reasons.

• I’m currently enrolled in MinnesotaCare and I am now pregnant; can I qualify for Medical Assistance?

  Yes, you may qualify for Medical Assistance during your pregnancy even if you are already enrolled in MinnesotaCare. Medical Assistance has higher income limits for pregnant individuals and provides more comprehensive coverage.

  You can contact MinnesotaCare to report pregnancy by calling 651-297-3862.

• What if I have other insurance, for example from my employer?

  You could still qualify for Medical Assistance. Sometimes the county helps to pay the cost of the other insurance so you can keep that coverage too.

• Can I see any doctor or go to any clinic?

  Medical Assistance during pregnancy covers your access to prenatal care, labor and delivery services, and postpartum care – as well as dental care, mental health and substance abuse counseling, and prescriptions medications related to pregnancy. You may need to choose a provider in your health plan’s network.

  Here you can find resources for members who get care through a health plan.

• What happens to my coverage after my baby is born?

  Your Medical Assistance coverage will continue for 12 months following the birth of your baby. After 12 months, you might need to renew your coverage or look into other healthcare options.

• How does my baby enroll in coverage? Is it automatic if I have Medical Assistance?

  You can contact your county to report your newborn and request their coverage. The county will ask for a few pieces of information, including your baby’s name and birth date.

  Here you can find the Minnesota Health Care Program county, tribal and state directory.

  You need to report your baby’s birth for them to gain coverage, however your baby is automatically eligible for Medical Assistance as long as you had Medical Assistance on the day your baby is born.

• What happens if I move to another county in Minnesota, or move out of state?

  If you move within Minnesota, report your new address to your county. This way you’ll make sure to receive important mail at your new address.

  If you move out of state, your coverage in Minnesota will end, and you’ll need to apply for benefits in your new state.

  Here you can find the Minnesota Health Care Program county, tribal and state directory.

• What if my income changes or my job ends during pregnancy?

  Report any changes to your servicing agency as soon as possible.

  Here you can find the Minnesota Health Care Program county, tribal and state directory.