How to get Health Coverage for moving back to the states for my pregnancy?

Question

I am American, living in Ireland (socialised medicine system) for the past 6 years. I'm currently relocating back to the states, and have discovered I'm 8 weeks pregnant.

Problem: How do I get coverage in the states now that I'm already pregnant?

- My current income seems to disqualify me for Medicare (Medicale?)

- The possibility of a job would disqualify me from any government/socialised programs wouldn't it?

- Most HMOs and Cobra appear to exclude me based on pregnancy because I don't have "continuous coverage"

Ireland is a socialised medical system, so I've had coverage here since we moved here (6 years), plus, I have additional private coverage through my current employer for the past 8 months.

Does coverage in another country (socialised and/or private) carry over as continued coverage when applying in the states?

Fairly stressed out about it. Staying in Ireland at this point is no longer an option. Any thoughts?

Answer 1

If you don't qualify for medicaid, the ONLY hope is through a job.  

I seriously doubt the social program in the UK will cover your expenses in the USA.

Not only will the pregnancy not be covered here in the USA on a private policy, but no health insurer will give you a policy, period, while you're pregnant.  

It's going to be through an employer, or through your husband's employer, or self pay, here in the USA.

Answer 2

It depends on where you're moving to for one.  Each state has different rules.  Staying there for 32 weeks would be the cheapest route.  

Insurance companies here aren't going to want to incur that cost.

Answer 3

Well, as you have already found out, you will not be able get coverage in the US due to your pre-existing condition. However, most group policies do not have exclusions for pre-existing conditions. If you got a job with group coverage, most likely your pregnancy would be covered. There may be a waiting period for coverage (usually 3 months-the probationary period).

Medicaid is run by each state, so their rules for eligibility will differ as to whether you can have insurance and still qualify. And, most have a higher allowable income level for pregnancies. So google the state you will be relocating to + medicaid and see what those rules and income levels are.

You say you have additional private coverage through your current employer. What are the benefits of this policy? Can you continue it once you leave and is there any extension of coverage to the US? Check with your employer.

Your last option is to pay cash for your delivery and OB care. Most hospitals and OB's have discounted cash rates for this that are really quite reasonable.