The Rising Cost of Bringing Life into the World: A Look at Pregnancy and Infant Care Expenses
Pregnancy remains a leading cause of hospitalization among non-elderly individuals in the United states. Beyond the immediate expenses of childbirth, significant costs accumulate thru prenatal care and the treatment of both psychological and medical conditions that can emerge during pregnancy, delivery, and the crucial postpartum period.
A recent analysis,utilizing data from the merative marketscan Encounter Database,sheds light on the financial realities faced by families. The study, which examined claims data from 2021 to 2023 for individuals with employer-sponsored health insurance and their children under two years old, reveals that the average total health costs associated with pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care reach a substantial $20,416. This figure includes an average of $2,743 in out-of-pocket expenses for women enrolled in these plans.
The financial burden doesn’t end with the mother’s care. The analysis also highlights the healthcare costs associated with newborns – defined as children with less than three months of enrollment. These infants incur an average of $5,820 in total healthcare spending, with families contributing an average of $475 out-of-pocket.
This critically important research is available on the Peterson-KFF Health System Tracker, a vital resource dedicated to monitoring and evaluating the performance of the U.S. health system. The Tracker provides accessible data and insights into critical healthcare issues, helping to inform policy discussions and improve patient care.
Understanding these costs is crucial for families planning for the arrival of a child, as well as for policymakers working to ensure affordable and accessible healthcare for all.
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