Postpartum Health Coverage and Maternity Support for Single Mothers in Louisiana
Postpartum Health Coverage & Maternity Support for Single Mothers in Louisiana
Last updated: September 2025
This is your practical, one‑page hub for getting postpartum medical coverage, food help, rides to medical visits, mental health support, and more across Louisiana. Links go straight to the official portals so you can act fast.
If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take
- Call or apply online for Medicaid postpartum coverage now through LaMOMS (Louisiana Medicaid for pregnant people), use the MyMedicaid Self‑Service Portal to submit or check status, and if stuck, dial Louisiana Medicaid Customer Service at 1-888-342-6207. (ldh.la.gov)
- Get food benefits fast by applying for SNAP through DCFS CAFÉ, request an interview same day (expedited SNAP can start in 7 days), and also enroll with Louisiana WIC at 1-800-251-2229 for postpartum foods and breastfeeding support. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
- If the lights or AC are at risk, contact your parish agency on the LIHEAP map at Louisiana Housing Corporation, ask for “crisis” help, and—if you’re an Entergy customer—request a medical emergency hold while you set a payment plan. (lhc.la.gov)
Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 On Hand
- Medicaid eligibility, renewals, ID cards: Louisiana Medicaid Customer Service 1-888-342-6207 (TTY 1-800-220-5404), and the MyMedicaid portal for uploads. (ldh.la.gov)
- Plan choice and member help: Healthy Louisiana Enrollment Center 1-855-229-6848 (TTY 1-855-526-3346), plus plan numbers listed below. (myplan.healthy.la.gov)
- Food help & cash programs: DCFS LAHelpU 1-888-524-3578, apply on CAFÉ, and view SNAP FAQs. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
- 24/7 mental health: Louisiana 988 (call/text 988), and postpartum support via Postpartum Support International 1-800-944-4773. (louisiana988.org)
- Energy crisis & shutoff help: LIHEAP parish directory, and utility complaints to Louisiana Public Service Commission 1-800-256-2397. (lhc.la.gov)
What Coverage You Can Get Right After Birth in Louisiana
Most postpartum medical costs are covered up to 12 months after the end of pregnancy under state Medicaid, including through LaMOMS. Start here, then pick your managed care plan, schedule your postpartum visit, and add mental health and lactation support.
- LaMOMS provides full Medicaid during pregnancy and up to 12 months postpartum once approved; apply online through the MyMedicaid portal, call Medicaid Customer Service at 1-888-342-6207, or read LaMOMS details. (ldh.la.gov)
- If you’re denied full coverage but need contraceptive care, the Take Charge Plus family‑planning program can cover birth control, STI care, and up to seven visits a year; use the FAQ page for rules. (ldh.la.gov)
- Non‑emergency medical rides are covered: call your plan’s transportation broker (listed below) or Verida fee‑for‑service line at 1-855-325-7626; confirm pickup window and return rides. (ldh.la.gov)
Postpartum Coverage — Quick Facts (Louisiana)
| What you need | Where to do it | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Postpartum Medicaid (12 months) | LaMOMS overview | Apply fast via MyMedicaid.la.gov or call 1-888-342-6207. (ldh.la.gov) |
| Choose/Change plan | Healthy Louisiana | Enrollment help: 1-855-229-6848 (TTY 1-855-526-3346). (ldh.la.gov) |
| WIC postpartum foods | Louisiana WIC | Call 1-800-251-2229 for clinics and myWIC help. (ldh.la.gov) |
| Breast pumps | Medicaid pump rules | Hospital‑grade via WIC; electric pump via Medicaid with Rx. (lamedicaid.com) |
| Rides to care | Medical Transportation | Plan‑specific numbers below; fee‑for‑service rides via Verida. (ldh.la.gov) |
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your hospital social worker to submit a “presumptive eligibility” screen through Healthy Louisiana, call Louisiana 211 for a navigator, or appeal any Medicaid denial per LDH appeal instructions. (myplan.healthy.la.gov)
Healthy Louisiana Plans — How to Pick and Who to Call
Start with doctors you want to keep, then match the plan’s network, transportation, dental extras, and perks like meal boxes or diaper rewards. You can change plans within your first 90 days.
- Use Healthy Louisiana’s site to see provider directories, or call the enrollment center at 1-855-229-6848 (TTY 1-855-526-3346); review LDH plan contact list before switching. (myplan.healthy.la.gov)
- Managed care plans in 2025 include Aetna Better Health, AmeriHealth Caritas, Healthy Blue, Humana Healthy Horizons, Louisiana Healthcare Connections, and UnitedHealthcare; verify your obstetrician and pediatrician are in‑network. Use plan member services numbers below or LDH contacts. (ldh.la.gov)
- Transportation is different by plan; check your plan’s broker (MediTrans, Verida, Modivcare, or MTM) on LDH Transportation or the plan’s transportation page. (ldh.la.gov)
Healthy Louisiana — Plan and Contact Quick Sheet
| Plan | Member Services | Transportation | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aetna Better Health | 1-855-242-0802 | MediTrans 1-877-917-4150 | Adult dental through DentaQuest line 1-800-685-0143. Aetna dental page (aetnabetterhealth.com) |
| AmeriHealth Caritas | 1-888-756-0004 | Verida 1-888-913-0364 | 24/7 behavioral crisis 1-844-211-0971. Important numbers (amerihealthcaritasla.com) |
| Healthy Blue | 1-844-521-6941 | MediTrans 1-866-430-1101 | Enrollment help via Healthy Blue enroll. (myhealthybluela.com) |
| Humana Healthy Horizons | 1-800-448-3810 | MediTrans 1-844-613-1638 | Adult dental allowance info on Humana dental. (humana.com) |
| LA Healthcare Connections | 1-866-595-8133 | 1-855-369-3723 (MediTrans effective 5/1/2025) | Transition announced; same reservation line. News (louisianahealthconnect.com) |
| UnitedHealthcare | 1-866-675-1607 | ModivCare 1-866-726-1472 | Enrollment instructions at UHC How to Enroll. (uhc.com) |
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Healthy Louisiana Enrollment at 1-855-229-6848, ask for a “continuity of care” request if you’re mid‑treatment, and escalate to LDH Managed Care if you need a plan-level grievance review. (myplan.healthy.la.gov)
Breastfeeding, Pumps, and Lactation Help
You can combine Medicaid coverage (electric pump you keep) with WIC support (loaner hospital‑grade pumps and peer counselors). If you delivered early or your baby is in the NICU, ask for a loaner the day you deliver.
- Louisiana Medicaid covers a personal double‑electric pump with a prescription and required form; you can get it at or after delivery, and as of March 2024 LDH lets qualifying moms receive pumps as early as 32 weeks. See LDH pump policy and coverage update. (lamedicaid.com)
- WIC issues hospital‑grade loaners for medical need and personal pumps for return to work or school; call Louisiana WIC Breast Pumps and the 1-800-251-BABY line. You can also use USDA WIC Breastfeeding Support to compare options. (louisianawic.org)
- For live guidance, reach the LA WIC Peer Counselor Program, ask about free Pacify 24/7 lactation consults, and get hospital support via Woman’s Hospital lactation if you’re in Baton Rouge. (louisianawic.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your pediatrician or Healthy Louisiana plan case manager to order a pump through a DME supplier, and have WIC document medical need for a hospital‑grade loaner under Louisiana WIC rules. (ldh.la.gov)
WIC and Food Support After Delivery
WIC has a separate postpartum food package plus nutrition coaching. SNAP can bridge grocery gaps while you’re on leave or job‑hunting.
- From Oct 1, 2024 through Sept 30, 2025, postpartum participants receive a 47monthlyfruitandvegetablebenefit(CVB)underthefinalrule;childrenget47 monthly fruit and vegetable benefit (CVB) under the final rule; children get 26 and fully/mostly breastfeeding get $52—see USDA FY 2025 CVB memo and WIC Q&A. Apply at Louisiana WIC (1-800-251-2229). (fns.usda.gov)
- Ask your clinic about farmers‑market cards (often $50 per participant) through LDAF’s WIC produce program; check your parish and spend-by dates (current cycle expires Nov 30, 2025). (ldaf.la.gov)
- For broader food help, apply for SNAP in CAFÉ, review SNAP How to Apply, and call LAHelpU at 1-888-524-3578 if you need phone filing or an expedited interview. (dcfs.la.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Text your ZIP to 898-211 for Louisiana 211 pantry listings, call the WIC line again for the nearest clinic with openings via Louisiana WIC contact, and check if your parish has a SUN Bucks summer benefit for school kids. (louisiana211.org)
Cash, Child Care, and Transportation While You Recover
Postpartum bills can pile up. Combine small benefits—TANF cash, child care subsidies, and free rides—to keep care going and work toward stability.
- TANF cash in Louisiana is called FITAP; the state’s current flat grant for one adult-and-child unit starts at $244 and rises by household size (see table on FITAP page). Apply in CAFÉ or call LAHelpU. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
- Child care subsidies: CCAP helps pay licensed care while you work, seek work, or study. Check the current income chart (e.g., $5,173 per month for 3 persons shown on LDOE site) and ask about copays and waitlists. For status questions, contact LDOE via Ask LDOE. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- Rides to care: If you lack a car, schedule non‑emergency medical transportation through your plan’s number in the table above or the fee‑for‑service line at Verida 1-855-325-7626. Humana’s MediTrans page explains timing and “Where’s my ride?” calls. (ldh.la.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your OB office or Partners for Healthy Babies helpline 1-800-251-2229 to connect you to a home‑visiting program (Nurse‑Family Partnership or Parents as Teachers) that can help with applications and rides. If you’re denied FITAP, appeal and ask about the STEP employment program for work support. (1800251baby.org)
Mental Health After Birth — Real Help, 24/7
Mood and anxiety symptoms are common and treatable. You deserve support right away—no referral needed.
- Call or text Louisiana 988 for 24/7 crisis support; Spanish help is available, and Veterans can press 1. For routine counseling, use LDH Behavioral Health, or dial 211 to find sliding‑fee clinics. (louisiana988.org)
- For postpartum‑specific support, contact Postpartum Support International (PSI) at 1-800-944-4773 (text available, Spanish line too), and ask your OB about local perinatal therapists; Woman’s Hospital lists Baton Rouge options. (postpartum.net)
- The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline runs 24/7 at 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262); Partners for Healthy Babies’ New Moms page points to it and to Healthy Start navigation. (1800251baby.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your Medicaid plan for a behavioral‑health case manager (see numbers above), contact PSI Louisiana Chapter for local groups, and call Family Connects NOLA if you delivered at Ochsner Baptist or Touro. (psichapters.com)
How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Louisiana Today
You can often pause or prevent disconnection if you act before the due date and document hardship or medical risk.
- First, call your utility’s customer service and set a payment arrangement; for Entergy, request a certified medical emergency hold (30 days) at 1-800-368-3749 and confirm in writing. Then apply for crisis LIHEAP at your parish office on the LHC Energy Assistance page. (billtoolkit.entergy.com)
- If you’re in immediate danger of disconnect, bring the shutoff notice and ID to the LIHEAP intake site (see parish phone map) and ask for “disconnect” or “crisis” slots; check Total Community Action’s update for Orleans schedules. (tca-nola.org)
- If the company won’t work with you, file a complaint with the Louisiana Public Service Commission (1-800-256-2397) and ask for help negotiating a plan; during heat emergencies, many utilities temporarily suspend disconnects—see prior Entergy announcements. (lpsc.louisiana.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a hospital or clinic to fax a medical‑necessity letter (for a newborn on medical devices) and escalate with the LPSC consumer office; continue LIHEAP attempts and call 2‑1‑1 for church funds in your parish. (lpsc.louisiana.gov)
Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups
Use these trusted partners when you need one‑to‑one help with diapers, classes, counseling, or legal advice.
- Partners for Healthy Babies (1-800-251-2229) connects you to nearby clinics and home visiting; Healthy Start New Orleans offers case management, and Family Connects NOLA can send a nurse soon after birth. (1800251baby.org)
- Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans supports pregnant and parenting families (adoption counseling at 504‑885‑1141), Woman’s Hospital support groups serve Baton Rouge, and Louisiana 211 can list diaper banks and rent help. (ccano.org)
- For breastfeeding groups, check La Leche League of Louisiana, ask your WIC peer counselor, and see lactation clinics on Woman’s care finder. (medicine.tulane.edu)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your Medicaid plan’s case manager for a community health worker referral, or call United Way 211 to locate an in‑person navigator in your parish. (launitedway.org)
Resources by Region (Examples and Numbers You Can Use)
Use the parish resources that match where you live; if yours isn’t listed, dial 211 and ask for maternal/infant services nearby. (louisiana211.org)
- New Orleans Area: Reach Healthy Start NOLA at 1-504-658-2600, contact VIA LINK/211 for crisis chats, and apply for Orleans LIHEAP via Total Community Action. (nola.gov)
- Baton Rouge & Capital Area: Call Woman’s Hospital Social Services (225‑924‑8456), use City LIHEAP page, and get DCFS office info under Find a DCFS Office. (womans.org)
- Shreveport/Bossier & Northwest: Schedule rides with your plan (see LDH transport list), call United Way 211 Shreveport area, and ask Caddo Community Action for LIHEAP via the LHC directory. (ldh.la.gov)
- Lafayette/Acadiana: Check The Family Tree Healthy Start info, apply for WIC appointments via Louisiana WIC, and call 232‑HELP/211. (acadianafamilytree.org)
- Lake Charles/Southwest: Connect to United Way Southwest Louisiana 211, use the LHC parish map for LIHEAP, and verify Healthy Louisiana enrollment deadlines. (unitedwayswla.org)
- Monroe/Northeast: Use United Way 211 (Monroe hub), contact Ouachita’s LIHEAP on the LHC directory map, and check DCFS office locator. (louisiana211.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your Healthy Louisiana plan for a community health worker, call Partners for Family Health to request a call back, or use 211 text (ZIP to 898‑211). (partnersforfamilyhealth.org)
Diverse Communities — Targeted Help and Access Notes
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Use Louisiana 988 for confidential support, contact PSI Louisiana Chapter for inclusive postpartum groups, and ask your plan’s case manager to connect you to affirming OB and pediatric providers via Healthy Louisiana directories. Accessibility note—TTY via 711 to 988; ask for interpreter services if needed. (louisiana988.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or caring for disabled children: Schedule rides through your plan’s NEMT (see LDH transportation list) and ask your plan for durable equipment or home health; WIC can modify visits—contact Louisiana WIC and request large‑print materials. For behavioral health, start with LDH Behavioral Health. (ldh.la.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Call the Women Veterans Call Center at 1-855-829-6636 for maternity coordination, ask about VA‑paid community OB care, and link back to Medicaid via LaMOMS for the baby’s coverage. You can also contact the WVPM locator to find the women’s program manager at your nearest VA. (womenshealth.va.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Louisiana Medicaid covers emergency labor and delivery for certain non‑citizens who meet income rules; review LDH Medicaid FAQs and apply via the MyMedicaid portal. For local navigation, call Partners for Healthy Babies for a warm transfer to clinics with interpreters. (ldh.la.gov)
- Tribal members and Native families: Ask your plan for providers familiar with Indian Health Service coordination and check tribal health pages such as Tunica‑Biloxi Health Department contacts, learn about wellness programs like Healthy Transitions, and review the United Houma Nation community updates. Use LaMOMS for state coverage alongside IHS or tribal services. (tunicabiloxi.org)
- Rural single moms with limited access: Use NEMT by plan to reach prenatal/postpartum visits, ask 211 for mobile clinics and home visiting, and use Healthy Louisiana app to find the closest in‑network OB by ZIP. (ldh.la.gov)
- Single fathers: Fathers can enroll newborns in Medicaid, seek WIC for the infant, and join Healthy Start dad groups (see Healthy Start NOLA); get child support help at DCFS Child Support and message your worker in CAFÉ. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
- Language access: Medicaid call centers can arrange interpreters; 211 offers live translation in over 160 languages (text ZIP to 898‑211); WIC can coordinate interpreters via Louisiana WIC. Use 711 for TTY with 988 or any state line. (launitedway.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a supervisor and “reasonable accommodation” or interpreter under civil rights rules, escalate with your plan’s grievance process via LDH Managed Care, and file a complaint if access barriers continue. (ldh.la.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing Medicaid mail: Many lose coverage by not updating addresses; set alerts in MyMedicaid.la.gov and call Medicaid Customer Service if a letter mentions verification. Healthy Louisiana also offers email/text notices. (ldh.la.gov)
- Assuming adult dental is fully covered: Core Medicaid covers dentures and limited services, but extra adult cleanings/allowances are often plan “extras” (e.g., Aetna dental via DentaQuest or Humana dental). Verify before booking. (ldh.la.gov)
- Waiting on rides: Book NEMT at least 48 hours ahead through your plan (see LDH transport list), confirm pickup, and call “Where’s my ride?” if late. Keep appointment letters ready. (ldh.la.gov)
- Using outdated WIC amounts: The CVB changed; postpartum is $47/month through Sept 2025—see USDA FY25 memo and your Louisiana WIC clinic. (fns.usda.gov)
- Skipping appeals: You can appeal Medicaid and SNAP decisions; DCFS shows appeal instructions in SNAP pages and LDH lists Medicaid appeals. Appeal deadlines are short—act quickly. (dcfs.la.gov)
Reality Check — Delays, Denials, and Shortages
- Phone lines jam: Expect long waits at LAHelpU and Medicaid Customer Service during renewals; use portals first and upload documents clearly. Louisiana Healthcare Connections shows why call volumes spike. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
- Processing times: Typical non‑crisis SNAP decisions take up to 30 days, expedited in ≤7; Medicaid can take several weeks; LIHEAP varies by parish (often 10–15 business days) and funding runs out—check the LHC parish directory for openings. (lhc.la.gov)
- Plan networks shift: Transportation brokers and dental allowances change (e.g., LA Healthcare Connections to MediTrans in May 2025); always reconfirm benefits on your plan’s site and LDH transport page. (louisianahealthconnect.com)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | First step | Backup |
|---|---|---|
| Medicaid postpartum | Apply at MyMedicaid or call 1-888-342-6207 | Appeal per LDH; ask hospital to submit presumptive eligibility. (ldh.la.gov) |
| WIC postpartum | Call 1-800-251-2229 or visit Louisiana WIC | Ask Partners for Healthy Babies for clinic openings. (ldh.la.gov) |
| Food this month | Apply SNAP in CAFÉ | Text ZIP to 898‑211 for 211 pantries. (louisiana211.org) |
| Ride to care | Call plan’s NEMT (see above) or Verida | Ask clinic to fax urgent ride request to broker. (ldh.la.gov) |
| Shutoff notice | Apply LIHEAP + call utility for a plan | File complaint with LPSC. (lhc.la.gov) |
Application Checklist (save/print and check off)
- Photo ID: Driver’s license or other ID for you; upload in MyMedicaid and CAFÉ.
- Proof of address: Lease or recent bill; see LDH FAQ and SNAP docs list.
- Proof of income: Last 30 days of pay; add benefits letters; review FITAP rules.
- Baby’s proof: Birth record discharge or certificate; add hospital letter to LaMOMS.
- Medical bills/shutoff: Upload LIHEAP docs from LHC list.
- Transportation: Doctor’s appointment letter for NEMT booking.
- Breast pump: Prescription and LDH pump form; contact WIC for hospital‑grade loaner. (lamedicaid.com)
If Your Application Gets Denied (Troubleshooting)
- Medicaid/LaMOMS: Read the letter closely, then file an appeal by the deadline listed under LDH Medicaid; keep copies you uploaded to MyMedicaid and ask your clinic for a coverage verification printout. Contact Healthy Louisiana for plan questions. (ldh.la.gov)
- SNAP/FITAP: Message your worker in CAFÉ, upload missing proofs, call LAHelpU for the appeal address, and continue to file any requested weekly reports. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
- WIC: Ask to speak to the clinic supervisor, request the next open slot at any clinic via Louisiana WIC contact, and keep benefits active in the myWIC app. (louisianawic.org)
- Transportation: Re‑book with more notice, ask the provider to mark the ride “urgent,” and escalate using the broker’s “Where’s my ride?” line listed on LDH’s page. (ldh.la.gov)
Key Program Tables You Can Use
Table — Main Benefits & Typical Amounts/Timeframes (2025)
| Program | What you get | Typical timing |
|---|---|---|
| LaMOMS | Full Medicaid during pregnancy + up to 12 months postpartum | Decision in weeks; call 1‑888‑342‑6207; apply online. (ldh.la.gov) |
| WIC postpartum | $47/month fruits/veggies CVB, other foods, lactation support | Appt scheduling varies by clinic; see WIC. (fns.usda.gov) |
| SNAP | Monthly EBT (amount varies) | Up to 30 days; ≤7 for expedited; apply CAFÉ. (dcfs.louisiana.gov) |
| FITAP | Flat cash grant (e.g., $244 for 1) | Decision times vary; see FITAP table. (dcfs.louisiana.gov) |
| NEMT | Free rides to covered visits | Book ≥48 hrs ahead via LDH list. (ldh.la.gov) |
Table — Healthy Louisiana Transportation Numbers
| Plan | Broker | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Aetna | MediTrans | 1-877-917-4150 |
| AmeriHealth Caritas | Verida | 1-888-913-0364 |
| Healthy Blue | MediTrans | 1-866-430-1101 |
| Humana | MediTrans | 1-844-613-1638 |
| LA Healthcare Connections | MediTrans (as of 5/1/25) | 1-855-369-3723 |
| UnitedHealthcare | ModivCare | 1-866-726-1472 |
| Source: LDH Medical Transportation and LAHC announcements. (ldh.la.gov) |
Table — Who to Call for Mental Health Now
| Service | Number/Link | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Louisiana 988 | Call/text 988; FAQ | Spanish available; TTY via 711. (louisiana988.org) |
| PSI Helpline | 1-800-944-4773; PSI | Not a crisis line; returns calls daily. (postpartum.net) |
| Maternal MH Hotline | 1-833-852-6262; New Moms page | 24/7 national support. (1800251baby.org) |
Table — Utility Shutoff Steps
| Step | Action | Where |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Set a payment plan and ask for a medical hold if applicable | Entergy medical hold; call your utility |
| 2 | Apply LIHEAP crisis same day | LHC Energy Assistance map |
| 3 | File complaint if needed | LPSC complaint page |
Table — Employment & Leave Basics
| Topic | Where to check | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unemployment eligibility | Louisiana Workforce Commission UI FAQ | Must be able/available for work; file or certify at 1‑866‑783‑5567. (www2.laworks.net) |
| FMLA leave (unpaid) | U.S. DOL FMLA | Job protection if eligible; talk to HR and your doctor. |
| Child support setup | DCFS Child Support | Message your worker in CAFÉ. (dcfs.louisiana.gov) |
Real‑World Examples (What This Looks Like)
- You delivered preterm and can’t drive: Your hospital social worker helps you apply to LaMOMS on discharge day, you schedule an NEMT ride through your plan’s broker, and you borrow a hospital‑grade pump from Louisiana WIC within 48 hours. (ldh.la.gov)
- Shutoff notice and a newborn at home: You call Entergy for a medical emergency hold, file an appointment online for LIHEAP, and lodge a backup complaint with the LPSC if the company won’t accept your plan. (billtoolkit.entergy.com)
- Back to work soon, need child care: You apply for CCAP, keep the baby on Medicaid via MyMedicaid, and ask your WIC clinic about personal pumps and return‑to‑work feeding plans through LA WIC Breastfeeding. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- Postpartum anxiety: You call 988 for coaching tonight, schedule with a therapist from PSI’s directory, and ask your plan for an in‑network perinatal psychiatrist via Healthy Louisiana. (louisiana988.org)
FAQs — Louisiana Postpartum Coverage and Support
- How long does Medicaid cover me after childbirth in Louisiana?
Louisiana’s LaMOMS provides full coverage during pregnancy and may continue for up to 12 months postpartum once approved. Apply and verify in the MyMedicaid portal, call Medicaid Customer Service 1-888-342-6207, and read LaMOMS FAQs. (ldh.la.gov) - Can I get a free breast pump?
Yes—Medicaid covers a personal double‑electric pump with a prescription (one per delivery, rules apply) and Louisiana WIC loans hospital‑grade pumps for special needs. Review LDH pump policy and ask your plan for participating DME suppliers. (lamedicaid.com) - What if I can’t get to appointments?
Use your plan’s ride vendor (see LDH list) or fee‑for‑service Verida at 1-855-325-7626. If a ride no‑shows, call the “Where’s my ride?” line immediately and rebook. (ldh.la.gov) - How much produce money does WIC give postpartum?
For FY 2025 (Oct 2024–Sept 2025), postpartum participants receive 47/monthforfruitsandvegetables(CVB);childrenreceive47/month for fruits and vegetables (CVB); children receive 26; fully/mostly breastfeeding participants get $52. See USDA FY25 memo and call LA WIC. (fns.usda.gov) - How do I get food help fast while I wait for WIC?
Apply for SNAP at CAFÉ; expedited SNAP can be approved within seven days. For pantries and meals, text your ZIP to 898‑211 to reach Louisiana 211. (dcfs.louisiana.gov) - Is there cash help while I’m off work?
Check FITAP for TANF cash (e.g., $244 at entry level), and apply on CAFÉ. If you worked recently and are able/available for work, file Unemployment with LWC at 1-866-783-5567. (dcfs.louisiana.gov) - My power is about to be cut—what do I do today?
Ask your utility for a payment plan and a medical emergency hold (Entergy has a 30‑day hold—see Entergy medical hold), then book crisis LIHEAP. If refused, call the LPSC. (billtoolkit.entergy.com) - Where can I find a postpartum therapist who takes Medicaid?
Start with your plan’s behavioral health number, ask PSI Louisiana for perinatal providers, and if in Baton Rouge, see Woman’s Hospital resources. (psichapters.com) - How do I change Medicaid plans?
Use Healthy Louisiana online or call 1‑855‑229‑6848 (TTY 1‑855‑526‑3346) within 90 days of enrollment; verify your doctor and hospital are in‑network before you switch. (myplan.healthy.la.gov) - I’m a veteran—can VA help with maternity?
Yes—VA coordinates maternity care and can link you to local OBs. Call the Women Veterans Call Center at 1‑855‑829‑6636, and enroll the baby in Medicaid via LaMOMS/MyMedicaid. (womenshealth.va.gov)
Español — Resumen Rápido (traducción generada con herramientas de IA)
- Cobertura médica posparto: Solicite LaMOMS por MyMedicaid.la.gov o llame al 1-888-342-6207 (LDH Medicaid). (ldh.la.gov)
- Comida y WIC: Postparto recibe $47/mes en frutas/verduras (CVB 2025) — vea USDA y llame Louisiana WIC 1-800-251-2229. Para SNAP use CAFÉ. (fns.usda.gov)
- Transporte médico: Programe viaje por su plan (ver LDH Transporte) o Verida 1-855-325-7626. (ldh.la.gov)
- Luz/agua: Pida plan de pago/pausa médica (ej. Entergy), y solicite LIHEAP. Quejas al LPSC. (billtoolkit.entergy.com)
- Salud mental: Llame 988 (Louisiana 988) o PSI 1‑800‑944‑4773 para apoyo posparto. (louisiana988.org)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) Medicaid
- LaMOMS (LDH)
- Healthy Louisiana Enrollment Center
- Louisiana WIC (LDH)
- USDA Food and Nutrition Service — WIC FY25 CVB
- DCFS — SNAP, FITAP, CAFÉ
- Louisiana Housing Corporation — LIHEAP
- Louisiana Public Service Commission
- Louisiana 211 Network
- Women Veterans Health (VA)
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
This content is for general information only. Programs change, funding opens and closes, and your situation can be unique. Always confirm current rules and benefit amounts directly with your making decisions. Use the links and phone numbers here—verify timing and availability, and keep copies of all documents you submit.
🏛️More Louisiana Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Louisiana
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
