We've previously discussed the Medicaid Presumptive Eligibility program, which helps pregnant women living in Illinois with limited income and resources. While it provides short-term coverage, there is another program that will see women through their entire pregnancy.
It’s called Moms & Babies, and it pays for both outpatient and inpatient hospital services for women while they are pregnant and for 60 days after the baby is born. It also pays for services to babies for the first year of the baby's life as long as the mother is covered by Moms & Babies when the baby is born.
What you should know
The Moms & Babies program is administered by the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (IHFS) and part of the All Kids medical program. Important information to note:
You must be pregnant and meet the income requirements qualify
You do not have to be a citizen or a legal immigrant
You do not need to have a Social Security number
There are no co-payments or premiums
Why apply?
If you already have MPE, it’s important to apply for Moms & Babies, too. When you submit a Moms & Babies application, your MPE coverage is automatically extended while your Moms & Babies application is reviewed so you can keep getting care from your doctor or clinic.
How do I get Moms & Babies?
Many doctors or clinics that care for pregnant women are All Kids application agents and can help you complete an application. If you don’t have a doctor or clinic, you can:
Call the All Kids Hotline at 1-866-255-5437 to find a doctor or clinic.
Call the All Kids Hotline at 1-866-255-5437 to find an All Kids application agent in your area who can help you complete the application.
Make an appointment at your local Department of Human Services (DHS) office.
Contact one of our maternity care clinics to make an appointment.
What do I need to apply?
You will need information about household income. If you had MPE and your coverage has lapsed, also bring information about termination of those benefits .
What are the income requirements?
Two family members: $0 to $2,883 per month
Three family members: $0 to $3,625 per month
Four family members: $0 to $4,367 per month
Five family members: $0 to $5,108 per month
What services can I get from Moms & Babies?
You can get outpatient maternity care and other outpatient services unrelated to pregnancy, including:
Doctor visits
Prenatal exams
Prenatal vitamins
Lab tests
Prescriptions
Specialty medical care
Dental
Vision
Emergency room visits
Medical transportation
Mental health and substance abuse services
Hospital services, including labor and delivery
Newborn checkups, well-baby care, and immunizations
Text4baby text messages, with tips on prenatal and infant care, immunization, postpartum depression, nutrition, oral health, quitting smoking, safety and more.
Additional services might also be covered by the program. Ask your provider to find out if a specific type of care is covered.
How long can I get services from Moms & Babies?
You can get services throughout your pregnancy and for 60 days after you have your baby. If you have Moms & Babies when your baby is born, your baby can get services from the All Kids program for one year.
The All Kids program helps children can get the care they need, when they need it. It means you can take your child to the doctor for a regular check-up, to the dentist to fill a cavity or to the eye doctor to get a prescription for glasses. Based on income and eligibility, you might pay small monthly premiums or receive services for free.
