The Cost of Giving Birth in Arkansas
Facing an unplanned pregnancy brings a wave of heavy emotions. For many women in Arkansas, the biggest worry is often financial.
You might be looking at your bank account and asking, "How much is the cost of giving birth?" It is a valid fear. Medical bills for pregnancy and delivery are steep, and if you are already struggling financially, the price tag of childbirth can feel overwhelming.
You are not alone in this anxiety.
Many women feel paralyzed by potential costs, but you have options. Whether you are considering parenting or adoption, understanding the financial landscape is the first step toward taking control of your future. We can provide free adoption information to help you find the support you need.
The cost of giving birth in Arkansas
When you look at the numbers, the cost of giving birth varies significantly depending on where you live and the type of delivery you have. Arkansas generally has lower medical costs than the national average, but the bills are still substantial.
According to data on the average cost of giving birth from the September 2024 release of the vaginal delivery and C-section FH Total Treatment Cost benchmarks:
- Vaginal Delivery:
- Out-of-Network: $20-$25K, ($24,070.06 Median Cost)
- In-Network: $10-$15K, ($10,827.3224,070.06 Median Cost)
- C-Section
- Out-of-Network: $30-$35K, ($31,336.82 Median Cost)
- In-Network: $10-$15K, ($12,412.01 Median Cost)
You can track medical cost data to see how these averages might fluctuate based on your specific location within the state.
If you are uninsured or out-of-network, you could be responsible for the entire amount. Even with insurance, if you go out-of-network, your average hospital bill for giving birth could mirror these high unadjusted rates.
Does insurance cover the cost of giving birth?
If you have health insurance, you might assume you are fully covered, but that is rarely the case.
Most private insurance plans and Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans in Arkansas cover pregnancy and childbirth as essential health benefits, but you will still have out-of-pocket expenses.
How much does labor and delivery cost out of pocket with insurance? It depends on your specific plan’s deductible and copays.
- Deductibles: You must pay this amount (often $1,000 to $5,000+) before your insurance kicks in.
- Coinsurance: After meeting your deductible, you may still have to pay a percentage (e.g., 20%) of the remaining costs.
- Copays: Fixed fees for prenatal visits and hospital admissions.
In Arkansas, the landscape is divided between private insurance, ACA plans, and Medicaid.
While private plans often have higher deductibles, Arkansas Medicaid is designed to cover the majority of pregnancy-related costs for those who qualify, leaving you with little to no bill.
What are the hidden or unexpected costs of childbirth?
The "sticker price" of delivery is just the beginning. When budgeting for the cost of having a baby at the hospital, many expectant parents forget to factor in the hidden expenses that arise before and after the main event.
Even if you have planned for the delivery, unexpected medical situations can skyrocket your bill. If your baby needs time in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) or if you need an emergency C-section, the costs can double or triple instantly.
You must also consider the hidden costs of having a baby that occur beyond the hospital walls:
These hidden costs are why the average hospital bill for giving birth is often just a fraction of the total financial impact of pregnancy.
Can you get Medicaid if you don’t have insurance in Arkansas?
If you are uninsured, applying for Medicaid is one of the most important steps you can take.
Arkansas Medicaid (specifically the "ARKids First" or pregnancy-related coverage) provides comprehensive coverage for prenatal care, labor, delivery, and postpartum care for up to 60 days after birth.
To qualify for pregnancy Medicaid in Arkansas, you must meet income guidelines, which are set at 214% of the Federal Poverty Level for pregnant women.
Crucially, Arkansas counts your unborn baby as a household member, which raises the income limit and makes it easier for you to qualify.
The application process can take time, so it is vital to apply as soon as you know you are pregnant. You can apply online through the Arkansas Department of Human Services Access Arkansas site.
You can view Arkansas Medicaid program details to see if you meet the specific eligibility requirements for your situation.
What if you can’t afford childbirth?
If you do not qualify for Medicaid and do not have private insurance, the “how much is the hospital bill for giving birth?” question becomes terrifying. You still have options to ensure you receive medical care.
- Hospital Charity Care: Non-profit hospitals in Arkansas are often required to offer charity care or sliding-scale payment plans based on your income. You must ask for this specifically through the hospital's billing department.
- Emergency Medicaid: In some cases, you may qualify for emergency coverage for the delivery itself, even if you didn't qualify for full prenatal coverage.
- Community Health Centers: Local clinics often provide prenatal care on a sliding fee scale, ensuring you get checkups even without insurance.
You can find federal support for family resources that may help alleviate some of these burdens.
Is adoption an option if you can’t afford to have a child?
If looking at these costs reinforces that you are not in a financial position to raise a child right now, adoption is a legal and loving option that carries zero cost for you.
When you choose adoption with American Adoptions:
The law in Arkansas permits coverage for your rent, groceries, utilities, and medical costs during this time.
Adoption allows you to ensure your baby has a life of opportunity without the crushing weight of financial instability falling on your shoulders.
Still unsure what to do?
Deciding how to handle an unplanned pregnancy is one of the hardest choices you will ever make. The cost of giving birth is a major factor, but it isn't the only one. You deserve to make this decision without pressure.
We are here to help you understand the costs and find a path that feels right for you.
Whether that is parenting with Medicaid or creating an adoption plan where your expenses are covered, you have support. Contact us today to speak with a specialist about your next steps.
Disclaimer
Information available through these links is the sole property of the companies and organizations listed therein. American Adoptions provides this information as a courtesy and is in no way responsible for its content or accuracy.
