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B.E.E Maternal: What the Program Offers and How It Works

By Constance Obi · Culture & Recreation Writer

B.E.E Maternal provides free maternity and infant care through South Carolina's Medicaid program for pregnant people and new mothers who meet income requirements

B.E.E Maternal stands for "Better Experiences for Every Mother and Baby." It is South Carolina's Medicaid expansion program that covers pregnancy care, delivery, and postpartum services for people whose household income falls within the program's limits. The program pays for prenatal visits, labor and delivery, hospital stays, and care for the newborn during the first year of life.

Unlike some Medicaid programs that end coverage after delivery, B.E.E Maternal continues to cover the mother for a full year after the baby is born. This means you stay covered for postpartum checkups, mental health services, and other care related to pregnancy and recovery—not just the birth itself.

Key Takeaways

  • B.E.E Maternal covers pregnant people and new mothers for one year after delivery, including prenatal care, delivery, and postpartum services.
  • Income limits vary by family size, and you can check whether you may be covered by contacting your county DSS office or calling the South Carolina DHHS hotline.
  • Coverage includes hospital delivery, prenatal and postpartum visits, mental health care, and the newborn's first-year care.
  • You can enroll during pregnancy or after delivery, and the program works with hospitals and clinics across South Carolina.

What Services B.E.E Maternal Covers

The program covers the full range of maternity and newborn care. This includes all prenatal visits, ultrasounds, lab work, and screenings during pregnancy. When you deliver, B.E.E Maternal pays for the hospital stay, delivery services, and any complications that arise during labor or immediately after.

After the baby is born, the program covers the newborn's hospital care, pediatric checkups during the first year, vaccinations, and screenings. For the mother, coverage continues for postpartum visits, mental health care (including screening and treatment for postpartum depression), and family planning services. Prescription medications related to pregnancy and recovery are also covered.

Income Limits and Who Can Enroll

B.E.E Maternal has income thresholds that vary based on family size. The program is designed for people whose income is above what regular Medicaid covers but who still need help paying for maternity care. Because income limits change and depend on how many people live in your household, the best way to learn about you may be covered is to contact your county Department of Social Services office or call the South Carolina DHHS hotline.

You can enroll while you are pregnant or after your baby is born. There is no waiting period—you can sign up at any point during pregnancy or within the first year after delivery. If you are already on regular South Carolina Medicaid, you may be automatically moved to B.E.E Maternal when you report your pregnancy.

How to Find Out About B.E.E Maternal in Your County

Each county in South Carolina has a Department of Social Services office that handles Medicaid enrollment, including B.E.E Maternal. You can visit your local DSS office in person, call them, or in some counties apply online through the South Carolina DHHS website. When you contact them, tell them you are pregnant or recently gave birth and ask about B.E.E Maternal coverage.

You will need to provide basic information about your household income, family size, and pregnancy or delivery date. Bring documents that show your income (pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer) and proof of residency in South Carolina. If you do not have all documents ready, the DSS office can tell you what else they need and give you time to gather it.

Coverage During Pregnancy and After Birth

Once you are enrolled, you can see any doctor or midwife who accepts Medicaid in South Carolina. Many hospitals, clinics, and private practices participate in the program. You do not pay anything out of pocket for covered services—no copays, no deductibles, and no premiums.

Coverage begins on the date you enroll and continues through the end of the month in which your baby turns one year old. This means if your baby is born in March, you stay covered through the end of March the following year. After that date, you may be able to stay on regular Medicaid if you still meet income requirements, or you may need to explore other coverage options.

Mental Health and Substance Use Support

B.E.E Maternal includes coverage for mental health screening and treatment during pregnancy and the postpartum year. This covers therapy, counseling, and medication for depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. Screening for postpartum depression is part of routine postpartum care and is covered at no cost.

If you have a history of substance use or are struggling with addiction during pregnancy, the program also covers treatment services, including medication-assisted treatment. These services are confidential and are designed to support both your health and your baby's health during and after pregnancy.

What Happens When Coverage Ends

When your baby turns one year old, B.E.E Maternal coverage ends. At that point, you have several options. If your household income is low enough, you may stay on regular South Carolina Medicaid. If your income is too high for regular Medicaid, you may be able to purchase coverage through the federal health insurance marketplace, or you may explore other programs.

Your baby can stay on Medicaid separately if your household income qualifies. The DSS office can tell you what your options are before your coverage ends, so you have time to plan. It is a good idea to contact them a few months before your baby's first birthday to understand what comes next.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I enroll in B.E.E Maternal if I am not a South Carolina resident?

No. B.E.E Maternal is only for people who live in South Carolina. You must be a resident to enroll. If you are pregnant and moving to South Carolina, you can enroll once you establish residency.

Do I have to pay anything while I am on B.E.E Maternal?

No. There are no premiums, copays, or deductibles for covered services. All prenatal care, delivery, postpartum care, and newborn care are covered at no cost to you. This includes prescription medications related to your pregnancy and recovery.

What if I am already on regular Medicaid when I become pregnant?

Tell your DSS office that you are pregnant. You may be automatically moved to B.E.E Maternal, which offers more comprehensive maternity coverage. If you are not automatically switched, ask the office to move you to the program.

Can my partner or family members be covered under B.E.E Maternal?

No. B.E.E Maternal covers only the pregnant person and the newborn during the first year of life. Other family members must apply for regular Medicaid or other coverage separately.

What if I miss a postpartum appointment?

Missing an appointment does not end your coverage. You stay covered for the full year after delivery. If you need to reschedule, contact your doctor's office or clinic. Postpartum care is important for your health, so try to keep your appointments when possible.