The scoop
Most states run Medicaid through private health plans, and many of those plans offer extra "value-added benefits" to compete for members. For pregnant members these often include a free car seat, a portable crib or play yard, diapers, or gift cards, usually as rewards for prenatal and postpartum checkups.
These extras aren't part of Medicaid itself, so they vary by plan, region and year. Your plan's member handbook lists what you can get.
How to claim it
- 1
Find your Medicaid health plan's name on your member ID card.
- 2
Search the plan's site for "value-added benefits" or call member services and ask what they offer pregnant members.
- 3
Complete the required step (often a first-trimester prenatal visit or a postpartum checkup) and request your item.
Who qualifies
- Enrolled in a Medicaid managed care plan
- Offers vary by plan, state and year