Figuring out your newborn’s insurance will save you from a lot of headaches and may even save you money!

Five Common Issues You Should be Aware of

1. To add your newborn to your insurance you must notify them of the baby’s birth (most plans give you only 30 days).

2. You cannot choose which insurance plan is primary for your baby.

• Two commercial plans. If your newborn will be on both the mother’s and father’s commercial insurance, the primary plan will be determined by the Birthday Rule. This means whichever parent’s birthday falls first within a calendar year will be primary.
• Tenncare & commercial insurance. Tenncare is always secondary.
• Tricare & commercial insurance. Tricare is always secondary.

3. Not all insurance policies cover newborn checkups, some insurance policies will only pay for three wellness visits or up to $300 a year, and others only pay for immunizations. Know your coverage!

4. Pick a PCP. Some insurance plans require you pick a Primary Care Provider for your baby, even if you have other children assigned to the same doctor. If you do not notify them they may not pay your claims or may randomly assign your baby to a Pediatrician you do not know.

5. Look out for forms from your insurance carrier requesting information about other insurance your newborn may have. Even if your baby does not have other coverage this form must be returned for your insurance to pay claims.