Medicaid coverage for moms is now available for 12 months after pregnancy. This means that after you give birth to your baby, YOU will have health coverage for 12 months.

Every pregnancy is different and the steps to recovery can be difficult. A mother typically has a health care visit around six to eight weeks after delivery. Studies show that women need support and care for pregnancy-related health issues for an entire year.

What does this mean for pregnant women?

You can use this new, longer coverage to:

• Schedule follow-up appointments for your physical recovery from birth.
• Treat your emotional wellbeing, including depression after pregnancy.
• Manage chronic health conditions, like diabetes and high blood pressure.
• Access family planning and birth control services.

This 12-month coverage also is available for women whose pregnancy does not result in a birth.

What steps do you need to take to get this coverage? 

If you have Medicaid:

• and you have already reported your pregnancy, you do not need to take any action.
• and you are pregnant, you must update your account to report the pregnancy.

If you are applying for Medicaid:

• and you are pregnant, you must answer the pregnancy questions when filling out the application to get the new coverage.

The coverage begins on the last day of your pregnancy and extends through the end of the month in which the 12-month period ends.

Why is the coverage so important?

Medicaid covers almost half of all births in the United States. Nearly 70 percent of women report at least one physical problem during the year after pregnancy. Be sure to use your health coverage to schedule physical and mental health visits and get the care you need.

Tax season is here! Are you all set to file? If you were enrolled in a private health plan through Maryland Health Connection any time this year, there are important steps you need to take when you file your federal taxes.

If you’re enrolled in a private health plan

1. Locate your Form 1095-A in your online account. We also mailed the forms on Jan. 31.
2. Make sure the information is correct.
3. Use this form to complete your Form 8962.
4. If your Form 1095-A Part III is empty or incomplete, if you applied to receive a tax credit through Maryland Health Connection and you believe your Form 1095-A Part III is incorrect, or if you had a change in your household during the plan year that you did not report to Maryland Health Connection, use this worksheet.

If you have Medicaid or MCHP (Maryland Children’s Health Program) coverage

1. View your Form 1095-B in your online account beginning in mid-February.
2. Make sure the information is correct.
3. Save it with your tax documents.
4. If you file taxes, you do not need to send this form to the IRS when filing your taxes.

Get covered when you file taxes!

We make it easy for uninsured Marylanders to find out more about health coverage and enroll. The Maryland Easy Enrollment Health Insurance Program was created so Marylanders have access to quality and affordable health insurance.

Check a box on your tax return if you would like the Maryland Health Benefit Exchange, the state agency that runs Maryland Health Connection, to see if you are eligible for free or low-cost coverage.

During these hot months, many are excited to enjoy quality time at the pool, a family hike on your favorite trail, a trip to the beach and other outdoor activities. While soaking up some vitamin D can be beneficial, too much sun can be harmful. July is National Ultraviolet Safety Month.

What is UV-A and UV-B?

The energy given off by the sun is broken down into 2 categories: UV-A and UV-B. Exposure to both UV-A and UV-B rays can cause skin cancer, which is the most common cancer within the United States.

How can you stay safe in the sun?

Damage from UV rays can develop over time. It is crucial to start sun protection practices early in your life. There are many ways you can protect yourself and your family from harmful UV radiation:

• Apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher.
• Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs.
• Stay in shaded areas during midday hours.
• Grab a hat to wear that covers your head, ears, neck, and face.
•  Wear sunglasses that protect from both UVA and UVB rays.

Treat your sunburn

According to the Mayo Clinic, a sunburn is a thermal burn that makes skin red and painful, and may be hot to the touch. It usually appears within a few hours after too much exposure to UV light, but may take days to fade.

To get some relief, follow these tips to treat your sunburn:

• Apply a cold compress to the sunburnt area.
• Take an over-the-counter pain reliever for discomfort and inflammation.
• Use aloe vera or similar cooling ointment to get rid of the heat on the skin.
• Avoid more sun exposure until you feel comfortable again.
• Dink plenty of water and avoid beverages such as alcohol that could dehydrate you.
• If the sunburn is severe and shows any signs of infection, seek medical care.

Celebrate Men’s Health Month in June by getting the most out of your health coverage. This program drives awareness around health issues that men may develop, like heart disease and prostate cancer. Guys, here are some important things to consider when it comes to using your health coverage.

Visit your primary care doctor
Regular check-ups can prevent or detect many health conditions. Set up your annual appointment with your health provider. All health insurance plans through Maryland Health Connection cover primary care visits.

Screenings
Screenings and preventive care are covered at no cost to you, even if you haven’t met your yearly deductible.

Mental health treatment
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, four times as many men than women commit suicide. Mental health treatment is covered under all health insurance plans. If you think you need help, please talk to someone to receive proper treatment.

Important screenings for men that are covered by Maryland Health Connection health plans are blood pressure, HIV, cholesterol, cancer (colorectal and more), Type 2 diabetes, and tobacco use screenings. Immunizations including hepatitis A and B, shingles, flu shots, measles, mumps, meningococcal,tetanus, and others.

Start using your coverage today!

Ladies, when was the last time you made sure your health was a top priority? With everyday responsibilities and activities, it’s easy to forget the last time you visited your primary care doctor, had a colonoscopy, or got a mammogram. To help you stay on top of your health, here are some recommendations to make the most of your coverage.

Know what your health plan covers

Health plans cover many benefits that are important to women, including doctor visits, prescriptions, mental health care, and pregnancy and newborn care.

Plans cover many preventive services for women without charging a copayment or coinsurance, even if you haven’t met your yearly deductible.

These include:

• Screenings for sexually transmitted infections
• Breast cancer screenings for women over 40
• Domestic and interpersonal violence counseling
• Help to quit smoking
• Well-woman visits
• Breastfeeding comprehensive support and counseling from trained providers, and access to breastfeeding supplies for pregnant and nursing women
• Birth control, education and counseling

If you don’t have health coverage, you can enroll now

Browse plans and get an estimate at MarylandHealthConnection.gov or download the free mobile app to compare coverage and costs before you enroll.

When you apply through Maryland Health Connection, you will estimate your household income to see if you can get help paying for health coverage. You may qualify for financial help to make health coverage more affordable.

If you’re pregnant or have children,you can earn more than other adults and still qualify for Medicaid. You can apply for Medicaid at any point during your pregnancy.

Hundreds of trained experts are available throughout Maryland to help you apply and enroll. Find help near you.

According to research from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), in 2018 there were nearly 2.5 million cases of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) reported. Baltimore city has the highest STD rate in the country, jumping five spots from last year’s report. During this STD/Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) awareness month, Marylanders should understand why it’s important to schedule consistent STD/STI screenings with your doctor.

What is the difference between an STD and STI?

If an individual is infected, but the infection has not fully developed into a disease, they have an STI. Having an infection is what occurs before developing an STD. Several STIs and STDs do not have any symptoms. This is why having a screening is crucial to know if you are infected. While an STD can develop from an STI, not every STI becomes an STD.

What are common STDs and STIs?

To understand your signs and symptoms, here are some common STDs and STIs to take a look at:

•   Herpes
•   Gonorrhea
•   Chlamydia
•   Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
•   Syphilis
•   HIV/AIDS

How do you prevent and treat an STD?

Have a conversation with your partner

Clear communication is key to preventing STDs. Have a conversation about how to practice safe sex and why it’s essential to get tested. It is also important to talk about the structure of your relationship and if you are seeking a monogamous relationship or not.

Go to your doctor

Several STDs do not show any signs or symptoms. If you are sexually active, ask your doctor during your yearly physical if getting tested is right for you. With your Maryland Health Connection plan, preventive screenings are covered.

Get treated

If you test positive for an STD, ask your doctor t for treatment. STDs left untreated can cause complications such as abdominal/pelvic pain, issues becoming pregnant, or an increased risk of developing HIV.

What is the Maryland Primary Care Program?

The Maryland Primary Care Program (MDPCP) is a voluntary program open to all Maryland primary care practices with primary care clinicians. The program provides resources to your primary care team to better manage and coordinate your care, at no extra cost to you. These services include:

• Integration of behavioral health needs with primary care.
• A care team led by your doctor.
• Access to links to social services such as transportation, food, housing, and much more.
• More convenient care options, such as telemedicine, group visits and home visits.
• Full-time Care Managers to help smooth transition of care, including follow up after hospital admissions and emergency department visits.

According to the Maryland Department of Health, MDPCP was modeled after the CMMI national Comprehensive Primary Care Plus Model​ (CPC+).Over 470 primary care practices in every county in Maryland are participating in this network to support your health. Doctors will also receive technical assistance and data support.

How does the MDPCP affect you?

Maryland Health Connection recently updated the Find a Doctor search tool. To see MDPCP participating doctors, you can click More Filters and select Yes or No next to the brief description of the program to view the list of participating doctors. When you search for a doctor, you can see a notation next to doctors who participate in MDPCP. By choosing a doctor who is part of MDPCP, you will receive additional support with management and prevention of chronic disease.

For more information on the program, please visit the Maryland Department of Health.

How to Report Unemployment Income on Your Maryland Health Connection Application

When you apply for health coverage through Maryland Health Connection, it’s important to enter your income correctly. This ensures your eligibility for coverage and financial help is based on accurate information.

Here’s what you need to know about reporting unemployment and other types of income:

What to Include in Your Application

Tips for Entering Income

• Enter your current monthly income as it is right now.
• For your projected annual income, add:
  - What you’ve already earned so far this year
  - Any unemployment benefits you expect to receive
  - Any income you may receive later in the year (for example, if you return to work).
• You can update your income information anytime if your situation changes. Keeping it current helps ensure you get the right amount of savings on your plan.
• If you qualify for financial help, you can adjust how much of the tax credit you use each month by moving the APTC slider when selecting a plan.
• By entering your income as accurately as possible, you’ll help make sure you receive the coverage and savings you qualify for through Maryland Health Connection.

If you recently have lost your job-based health benefits, you may be eligible to enroll in health coverage through Maryland Health Connection.

I lost my job. Can I get health insurance?

Yes, you have 60 days from the date of losing your job to enroll in health coverage through Maryland Health Connection.

You do not have to wait for open enrollment. A special enrollment period allows you to enroll in a health plan.

If you already have a Maryland Health Connection health plan and your income has changed, be sure to log in to your account and report the change. You may be eligible for more savings.

How do I enroll?

1. Browse plans and get an estimate at MarylandHealthConnection.gov or download the free mobile app to compare coverage and costs before you enroll.

2. When you apply through Maryland Health Connection, you will estimate your household income to see if you can get help paying for health coverage. Last year, nine in 10 people who enrolled through Maryland Health Connection qualified for financial help.

3. Choose a health plan that is the best fit for you and your family. If you need help, call 1-855-642-8572.

4. Pay your first bill.

5. You are covered!

What about COBRA?

Your company may offer you Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA). This is an opportunity to continue your current health coverage (typically up to 18 months) at an increased personal cost, since you will be paying the portion your employer used to pay. If you have already enrolled in coverage through COBRA, you must either wait for open enrollment in the fall or wait 18 months for your COBRA benefits to expire before you can enroll through a special enrollment period with Maryland Health Connection.

Can I compare COBRA and Maryland Health Connection coverage?

To estimate the cost and benefits of Maryland Health Connection coverage with that of COBRA, use our Get an Estimate tool to understand your options before making a decision.

Is Medicaid an option?

Yes, if you are eligible, you may apply for Medicaid at any time. You do not have to wait until the open enrollment period or until COBRA coverage ends to enroll in Medicaid.

Need help?

Free consumer assistance is available by calling 1-855-642-8572 weekdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Deaf and hard of hearing use Relay. Help is available in more than 200 languages. You also may call a navigator in your area, who can answer questions and help you complete the application by phone. Also, Check out our YouTube channel for short videos on how to use the online application.

A global pandemic was not top of mind 10 years ago when the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) came into being. But Maryland and many other places are vastly better positioned today because of it.

A decade ago, 12 out of every 100 Marylanders lacked health coverage. Today, it’s about 6 out of every 100. That’s the best ever recorded by the Census Bureau. An estimated 59,000 children in Maryland did not have health insurance in 2013 when this state and others launched their health insurance marketplaces under the ACA. Three years later, that total had dropped 24% to 45,000.¹

Communities that had lacked health insurance at higher rates prior to the ACA — young adults, African-Americans, Latinos — began closing that gap. Since 2015, consumers who identified as African-American when they enrolled in coverage through Maryland Health Connection have increased by 20% to more than 27,000. Enrollees self-identified as Hispanic tripled during that same period, up to 18,000 in 2020.

And because more people have health insurance, they have been able to get care and treatment for conditions that might have made them even more vulnerable in the current environment.

• The percentage of Marylanders who reported not having a doctor declined from 21% in 2013 to 16% in 2018², which was 10th best in the nation.
• By expanding Medicaid eligibility, Maryland extended smoking cessation coverage to about 70,000 adults not previously eligible for Medicaid³.
• A study of 69,000 patients found a 60% increase in the use of rehabilitation by young adult trauma patients due to expanded coverage⁴.

Enrollment in health coverage in Maryland has been so successful, in part, due to the 600+ trained navigators, insurance brokers and others who have provided free, expert assistance to help hundreds of thousands enroll in coverage. Health care affordability continues to be a priority in the country. In 2018,Maryland was able to provide $744 million to reduce premiums for 120,000 residents. The state continues to enact laws like a reinsurance program, which helped thousands of people save dramatically on their 2018 and 2019 premiums. 

Footnotes

1.  Georgetown University Health Policy Institute, “Nation’s Uninsured Rate for Children Drops to Another Historic Low in 2016,” September 2017
2.  State Health Access Data Assistance Center (SHADAC), University of Minnesota School of Public Health, State Health Compare
3.  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “State Medicaid Expansion Tobacco Cessation Coverage and Number of Adult Smokers Enrolled in Expansion Coverage — United States, 2016,” December 9, 2016 
4. JAMA Surgery, “Implications of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act on Insurance Coverage and Rehabilitation Use Among Young Adult Trauma Patients,” December 21, 2016