It’s important to add your baby to your health plan. You’ll want to do this quickly to make sure they’re covered in case they need additional medical attention after you leave the hospital with them. But don’t worry. While adding someone to your plan can seem confusing or sound stressful, we can help. Here’s a quick guide to help you add your baby to your Medicaid health insurance plan, the moment they arrive.
Before we get into details, know this: Your baby is covered from delivery through the end of your hospital stay. That means any medical service performed on your baby is covered by your health insurance. During your stay, the hospital reports your baby to the State to begin enrollment in your Medicaid plan. However, you need to add your baby to your plan through your local Department of Human Services office, also called DHS, within 10 days of delivery for future coverage. Here’s what to expect:
Call to report your new baby.
There are three methods to call to enroll your baby into your Medicaid plan. That’s your choice.
- Call your local DHS office too add your baby to your Medicaid plan.
- Call your Medicaid case worker directly to report the birth of your baby, if you know their phone number.
- Or call Michigan Enrolls main line at 888.367.6557.
Remember, this needs to be done within the first 10 days after delivery.
Prepare the right information when you are ready to call
Before you call the DHS office, have your Priority Health ID number and primary care provider information (such as their name and office address) ready. You’ll also want your baby’s new Social Security number if you have it. The DHS office will need this information when you call. If you do not have your baby’s SSN yet, that’s OK. You can add it later.
Have more questions about gathering this information?
Read through these frequently asked questions:
When will my baby’s Medicaid plan card arrive?
Your baby’s enrollment into your Medicaid plan will take between 30 and 45 days from the time the hospital contacts DHS. Don’t worry, your baby will be covered during this time. You should receive their new Medicaid plan ID cards in the mail after this period.
Call Priority Health if your baby needs medication right after birth.
It can be difficult to get prescriptions filled before you receive your baby’s Medicaid card. Should your baby need any prescription medication within the first two weeks of birth, Priority Health can help. Call customer service at 888.975.8102. You can also find this number on the back of your Priority Health member ID card.
Start using your coverage for important appointments.
Once your baby arrives, you’ll want to schedule and attend their check-ups with their pediatrician. If you’re still looking for a pediatrician, read this. These preventive visits, called well-child visits, are very important to help you and your pediatrician monitor your baby’s health. Once your new child is enrolled in your plan, these visits are covered at no cost to you.