Expectant Mothers Face Upfront Payment Demands for Delivery

Some pregnant women in the U.S. are being asked to prepay for maternity care, a practice that is legal but considered unethical by patient advocacy groups. This upfront billing can cause financial stress and anxiety, potentially leading women to forgo prenatal care or face difficulties switching providers. The practice stems from the high costs of maternity care and the way it is billed, with providers seeking to ensure payment for services. While the Affordable Care Act covers certain prenatal services, it doesn't prevent early billing, leaving patients to navigate complex insurance and billing systems.