My best friend is pregnant and without insurance. Are there any "credible" and affordable OBGYN doctors, women's clinics, etc. out there that she can look into? Also, does anyone know of some affordable insurance? Thanks for your help
I am pretty sure she won't be able to get insurance now, at least not anything that will cover the pregnancy. It may be a good idea to look into private insurance though that would cover major issues just in case of complications.
Many OBGYNs and hospitals will negotiate a discounted rate for an uninsured patient. The best discounts are for those that pay upfront, but for most of us that is close to impossible. I have heard that Parkland Hospital has some kind of program she may want to look into. Other than that, Trinity Medical Center in Carrollton has far better prices that others I have called. Her best bet it literally to call hospitals and doctors and ask for prices. They have financial counselors that will give them to you.
Finally, as someone else recently mentioned, she may want to look into http://www.maternitycard.com/ The jury still seems to be out on whether this is worth it or not.
Depending on her income, she might be eligible for Medicaid. It doesn't matter whether she's already pregnant or not. There are more than enough Dr.'s to choose from (it's kind of like staying in the network).
Check this out: http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/
Being pregnant, your friend would automatically qualify for medicaid regardless of income. She would receive those benefits until 90 days after her child is born and her child would receive medicaid for the first year of his/her life. I didn't get on medicaid until I was 5 months pregnant, so don't let people tell you it's too late. Medicaid will also cover any doctors bills within the past 3 months. I know the laws concerning medicaid changed in July 2006 and that income doesn't matter anymore. The only problem she might face is finding a doc that accepts medicaid, but the medicaid people can assist you with that.