Medicaid And Pregnancy: Traveling And Coverage Explained

Travelling while pregnant can be safe, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind, especially when it comes to healthcare coverage. In the US, Medicaid is a government-sponsored health insurance program for low-income families with inadequate or no medical insurance. All states offer Medicaid or a similar program to help pregnant women receive adequate prenatal and postpartum care. When travelling, it's important to understand what medical coverage you have and what it includes. Travel insurance is also an option to ensure you have the necessary coverage when away from home.

Travel insurance and pregnancy Medicaid

Pregnant women who are on Medicaid and planning to travel should consider buying a comprehensive travel insurance plan to cover any unforeseen pregnancy-related health issues. Travel insurance can help pay for emergency medical expenses related to unexpected complications while travelling, in addition to protecting any money invested in the trip.

Travel insurance can cover certain situations that result from unforeseen pregnancy complications. It typically does not cover trip cancellations or other travel losses resulting from a normal pregnancy. However, if you become pregnant after purchasing a policy, trip cancellation insurance may reimburse you if you cancel the trip due to a normal pregnancy. You must provide medical records to prove that the pregnancy started after the purchase date.

Travel insurance covers unforeseen complications related to pregnancy, but it does not pay for routine check-ups or natural childbirth. It is important to note that travel insurance does not cover the chance that a complication might occur. For example, if you have a history of premature deliveries, your doctor may advise against travelling, but this is still considered a normal pregnancy as no complication has been diagnosed.

Medicaid and travel insurance

Medicaid is a government-sponsored health insurance program for low-income families with no medical insurance or inadequate insurance. All states offer Medicaid or a similar program to help pregnant women receive adequate prenatal and postpartum care.

Pregnant women are covered for all care related to pregnancy, delivery, and any complications that may occur during pregnancy and up to 60 days postpartum. Additionally, pregnant women may qualify for care that was received for their pregnancy before they applied and received Medicaid. This is called "Presumptive Eligibility" and was put in place so that all women could start necessary prenatal care as early in pregnancy as possible.

Travel considerations for pregnant women

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists states that the safest time for a woman to travel is in the second trimester of her pregnancy, from 14 to 28 weeks. During the third trimester, many healthcare providers advise staying within a 300-mile radius of home because of potential problems such as high blood pressure and preterm labour. Generally, women are not allowed to travel by air after 36 weeks for domestic travel and after 28 to 35 weeks for international travel.

Pregnant travellers should also avoid destinations with a risk of Zika and malaria, as these can cause severe birth defects and increase the risk of serious pregnancy problems, respectively. It is important to check the policies of airlines and cruise operators before booking, as some may not allow travel after 24-28 weeks of pregnancy and may require a note from your doctor stating you are fit to travel.

Vaccinations and pregnancy Medicaid

Vaccinations are crucial for pregnant women as they help keep themselves and their unborn or newborn child safe. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, which falls under the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recommends that all women receive the tetanus toxoid, reduced diphtheria toxoid, and acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine and a regular influenza vaccine during pregnancy.

Medicaid programs, which differ from state to state, do not necessarily cover these vaccines, often forcing women from low-income families to pay out of pocket. While flu shots are often available for free at local supermarkets or clinics, the Tdap vaccine averages about $71 without discounts.

A study by the University of Florida Health found that women who are Medicaid recipients had lower vaccination rates for both Tdap and influenza during pregnancy compared with privately insured women. There was a notable increase when UF Health hospitals offered those vaccines for free to women after their children were born: Tdap vaccination rates among women using Medicaid increased from 13% during pregnancy to 51% immediately after giving birth. The same was true for influenza vaccination, although the rates were lower. This suggests that Medicaid-insured women might receive the Tdap and influenza vaccines as recommended during pregnancy if cost barriers were removed.

The CDC recommends that all eligible persons age 6 months and older, including pregnant and lactating individuals, receive the COVID-19 vaccine series and booster. Vaccination can occur in any trimester, and receiving the vaccine as early in the pregnancy as possible is emphasized to maximize the benefits for women and infants.

Travel risks and pregnancy Medicaid

Pregnant women can generally travel safely, but appropriate preparation is key. The safest time to travel is during the second trimester (14-28 weeks), as this is when you are at the lowest risk of miscarriage or premature labour. However, it is important to consult with your doctor, especially if your pregnancy is high-risk.

Travel Insurance

Pregnant women should carefully review their travel insurance policies, as some plans do not cover trip cancellations or other travel losses resulting from normal pregnancies. Travel insurance can, however, cover certain situations that result from unforeseen pregnancy complications. For example, travel insurance may reimburse you for non-refundable trip costs if you must cancel or interrupt your trip due to complications. It is important to note that travel insurance does not cover the chance that a complication might occur.

Travel Health Kit

Pregnant travellers should prepare a travel health kit, which can include prescription medications, haemorrhoid cream, antiemetic drugs, antacids, prenatal vitamins, medication for vaginitis or yeast infection, and support hose. It is also important to bring a copy of your official immunisation records with you when you travel.

Travel to Developing Nations

Travelling to developing nations during pregnancy is not encouraged due to the risk of disease and lower standards of medical facilities. Pregnant women should also be cautious about taking medications of any kind, including those commonly used to treat traveller's diarrhoea, as some can pass to the baby through the placenta and cause birth defects or miscarriage.

Zika and Malaria

Pregnant women should avoid travelling to areas with a risk of Zika and malaria. Zika can cause severe birth defects and is spread through mosquito bites and sex. Malaria increases the risk of serious pregnancy problems, including premature birth, miscarriage, and stillbirth. If travel to these areas is necessary, be sure to take precautions such as using insect repellent and taking malaria prevention medicine.

Blood Clots

Long-distance travel increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), especially in pregnant women. To reduce the risk of blood clots, your doctor may recommend compression stockings or leg exercises. Staying hydrated and moving around regularly during travel can also help reduce the risk of DVT.

Food and Drink

Pregnant travellers should be cautious when choosing food and drinks to avoid travellers' diarrhoea and other diseases. Contaminated food or drinks are common in low and middle-income destinations. Generally, hot foods, dry and packaged foods, bottled, canned, and hot drinks are safe. Pregnant women should avoid using bismuth subsalicylate, found in Pepto-Bismol and Kaopectate, and iodine tablets for water purification, as these can harm the fetus.

Travel by plane and pregnancy Medicaid

Pregnant women can generally travel safely by plane until close to their due dates, provided they have a healthy pregnancy and no pregnancy complications. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before booking any travel during pregnancy.

Most airlines allow pregnant women to fly without restriction before 36 weeks, but some may request documentation from a healthcare provider stating the gestational age. It is important to check the airline's policy on pregnant travellers before booking a flight. After 28 weeks, some airlines may require a letter from a healthcare provider confirming the due date and that there are no complications.

Pregnant women should also ensure they have adequate travel insurance that covers pregnancy-related medical care, including premature birth and other potential complications. It is also recommended to find out about healthcare facilities at the destination in case of any urgent medical needs.

Long-distance air travel (longer than 4 hours) carries a small risk of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis or DVT). To reduce this risk, pregnant travellers should stay well-hydrated, move around regularly (at least every 30 minutes), and consider wearing compression or support stockings to reduce leg swelling.

The second trimester (weeks 14 to 28) is generally considered the best time to travel by plane during pregnancy. By this time, morning sickness has usually improved or resolved, and women often have more energy and mobility compared to the third trimester. Additionally, the risk of miscarriage is lower compared to the first trimester.

When flying during pregnancy, it is recommended to book an aisle seat for easier access to the aisle and bathrooms. Staying hydrated is crucial, as dehydration can reduce blood flow to the uterus. Walking and moving the legs regularly during the flight can help improve circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.

Travel by car and pregnancy Medicaid

Traveling by car while pregnant is generally considered safe, but there are some precautions to be aware of to ensure a comfortable and safe journey. Here are some tips for traveling by car during pregnancy while availing of pregnancy Medicaid:

Planning and Preparation:

Before embarking on a road trip, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider, especially if you have any medical conditions or pregnancy complications. The ideal time to travel is during the second trimester when you have more energy and morning sickness has usually improved. It is essential to have a copy of your prenatal records, any relevant ultrasounds, and your prenatal vitamins with you. Additionally, wearing comfortable and loose clothing, packing healthy snacks and drinks, and taking steps to prevent nausea are all recommended.

Seat Belt and Airbag Safety:

Wearing a seat belt is crucial for your safety and that of your baby. Always wear both the lap and shoulder belts, positioning the lap belt under your bump and the shoulder belt between your breasts, away from your neck. Adjust the steering wheel to aim at your chest to ensure the airbag provides maximum protection without deploying over your abdomen.

Comfort and Well-being:

Pregnancy can cause discomfort during long car trips. It is recommended to adjust your seat and steering wheel position for comfort and to use cushions or towels for back support. Simple stretches, both inside and outside the car, can help improve blood circulation and reduce swelling. Taking frequent breaks, approximately every 90 minutes, to walk and stretch your legs is essential for preventing blood clots and leg cramps.

Medical Considerations:

Pregnant women are advised to get out of the car and walk for a minute every hour and a half during a four- to five-hour drive. This recommendation becomes even more critical in the third trimester. Additionally, keeping your legs elevated slightly during the trip can improve circulation. It is also important to be mindful of any pregnancy complications and always have an emergency plan in place when traveling.

Medicaid Transportation:

Medicaid provides limited assistance with medically necessary transportation. Almost all Medicaid beneficiaries are eligible for transportation benefits, which can include rides to medical appointments, hospitals, and other healthcare providers. Be sure to use a transportation provider authorized to bill Medicaid in your state, as billing processes may vary.

In summary, traveling by car during pregnancy can be safe and comfortable by following these guidelines and staying mindful of your well-being and that of your baby.

Frequently asked questions