For pregnant women in Missouri, navigating health coverage shouldn’t be an additional burden. Missouri’s Medicaid program—MO HealthNet—provides comprehensive pregnancy coverage for low- and moderate-income women, from the first prenatal visit through delivery and the postpartum period. Knowing how to access it quickly makes a real difference.
Who Qualifies for Missouri Medicaid During Pregnancy
Pregnant women qualify for MO HealthNet if their household income is at or below 196% of the Federal Poverty Level. Missouri residency and citizenship or qualifying immigration status are required. Missouri also participates in the CHIP Unborn Child program, extending coverage to the unborn children of women who do not otherwise qualify. Current FPL thresholds are published by the MO HealthNet Division.
What MO HealthNet Covers During Pregnancy
Coverage includes prenatal doctor and midwife visits, laboratory tests and ultrasounds, hospital delivery (vaginal and cesarean), newborn care during the delivery stay, prescription medications, and postpartum care for at least 60 days after delivery. Many plans include dental and vision services during pregnancy. Importantly, coverage typically starts from the application date—not the approval date—so applying early protects your benefits retroactively.
How to Apply
Apply online at mydss.mo.gov, call 855-373-9994, or visit your local Family Support Division office. Bring proof of pregnancy (a physician letter or test confirmation), proof of identity and Missouri residency, and household income documentation. Alert the caseworker to your pregnancy at the start of the application—pregnant applicants are often prioritized for expedited processing.
Coverage After Birth
Newborns of Medicaid-enrolled mothers are automatically enrolled in Missouri Medicaid for their first year of life regardless of income. After that, eligibility is income-based. Missouri has pursued extended postpartum coverage to 12 months for the mother through federal waiver—confirm current policy with MO HealthNet, as this is subject to change.
Estate Planning and Medicaid: Protecting Your Family’s Future
If your family benefits from Medicaid—especially long-term or disability-related coverage—an unplanned inheritance can disrupt eligibility. Proper estate planning structures assets to protect benefit eligibility while providing for your family. Learn about special needs trusts in Missouri and how Medicaid planning and estate planning work together. Patrick Nolan of Nolan Law Firm in Kirksville, Missouri helps families plan ahead. Contact us at nemolegal.com/contact or (660) 956-4502.
Frequently Asked Questions: Missouri Medicaid for Pregnancy
Who qualifies for Missouri Medicaid during pregnancy?
In Missouri, pregnant women qualify for MO HealthNet if their household income is at or below 196% of the Federal Poverty Level. Citizenship or qualifying immigration status and Missouri residency are required. Missouri also covers unborn children of women who do not otherwise qualify through the CHIP Unborn Child program.
What does Missouri Medicaid cover during pregnancy?
Missouri Medicaid for pregnant women covers prenatal doctor and midwife visits, lab tests and ultrasounds, hospital delivery (including cesarean), newborn care during the delivery stay, prescription medications, and postpartum care for at least 60 days after delivery. Many plans also include dental and vision care during pregnancy.
How do I apply for Missouri Medicaid if I am pregnant?
Apply for Missouri Medicaid at mydss.mo.gov, by calling 855-373-9994, or in person at your local Family Support Division office. Bring proof of pregnancy, identity, Missouri residency, and household income. Pregnant women are often processed on an expedited basis—apply as early as possible since coverage can start from the application date.
Does Missouri Medicaid cover my newborn after birth?
Yes. Newborns born to Missouri Medicaid-enrolled mothers are automatically enrolled in Medicaid for their first year of life regardless of household income. After the first year, the child’s eligibility is based on household income under CHIP or standard Medicaid rules.
How long does postpartum Medicaid coverage last in Missouri?
Missouri has extended postpartum Medicaid coverage to 12 months after delivery through a federal waiver, though the specific duration may change with policy updates. Confirm current policy with the MO HealthNet Division at dss.mo.gov/mhd. After the postpartum period, eligibility reverts to standard adult Medicaid income limits.
Why does estate planning matter for Medicaid-covered families?
If a child with special needs is born, or if your family receives long-term Medicaid services, an unplanned inheritance or asset transfer can disqualify household members from future benefits. Patrick Nolan of Nolan Law Firm in Kirksville, Missouri helps families structure wills, trusts, and powers of attorney to protect public benefit eligibility while preserving family assets.
