In July, Masako was eight months pregnant and awaiting the birth of her second child who was due in August. On top of the usual concerns any couple has when they’re expecting a new baby, Masako was near tears as she considered her family’s tenuous health coverage situation, especially since delivery expenses alone, can exceed $8,000.

Although her husband has coverage through his employer, they could not keep up with payments despite the deductions for their family. With the arrival of her baby fast approaching, she met with Martha Patarroyo, a Certified Enrollment Counselor, through Orange County United Way to talk about options.

Fortunately, Martha quickly went to work to ensure smooth enrollment in a plan that was right for Masako and her family. During her enrollment process, she was also referred to other local community programs including the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program where she learned about supplemental foods and nutrition education for pregnant and postpartum women.

Masako received prenatal care with an obstetrician of their choice and delivered a healthy baby at Mission Hospital. Today, Masako’s 3-year old son is enrolled into a preschool program, which required Medi-Cal coverage and vaccinations– and her family enrolled into Covered California and Medi-Cal. Masako is grateful for United Way for giving her peace of mind, knowing she and her husband have high quality, affordable care in place to raise a happy, healthy family.

If you would like more information about Covered CA, please contact Martha Patarroyo, CEC by email or phone at 949-263-6155 or her cell phone at 714-308-1022.