The Detroit Free Press’  Patricia Anstett recently exposed several forthcoming changes to new Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan individual policies. Among them is a reduction in maternity coverage.

After March 31st, all new individual health plans will include only a $7,500 reimbursement for the cost of a medically necessary Cesarean sections. There was previously no limit on the amount reimbursed; this modification could result in some women paying thousands out of pocket for their C-section.

Those with employer-sponsored health insurance provided by BCBS are not affected, nor are those with existing individual health plans. The insurance company claims that changes such as this are necessary to prevent further losses. Unfortunately, as the Michigan health insurance company of last resort, BCBSMI is the only option for many people with various pre-existing conditions.

(Photo credit: Emery Co. Photo under CC 2.0)