The scoop
The Affordable Care Act requires most health plans to cover a set of preventive services for children at no cost to you, including well-baby and well-child visits, newborn screenings such as hearing and blood tests, developmental screenings and recommended vaccines.
Services are generally free when you see an in-network provider. Check your plan if your baby needs care beyond routine checkups.
How to claim it
- 1
Add your baby to your health plan (most plans give you 30 to 60 days after birth).
- 2
Choose an in-network pediatrician.
- 3
Schedule checkups on the recommended schedule; ask the office if anything isn't covered before the visit.
Who qualifies
- Most ACA-compliant health plans
- In-network providers