The following are frequently asked questions and answers about your rights when you have a baby at South Shore Hospital.
How long may I stay in the hospital after I give birth?
The federal Newborn’s and Mother’s Health Protection Act of 1996 gives you requires that insurers provide coverage for stays of up to 48 hours after a vaginal delivery and up to 96 hours after birth after a Cesarean birth. Your care provider may determine a medical reason for a longer stay.
If I deliver in the middle of the night and my 48 (or 96) hours is over late at night, will I be asked to leave the hospital?
No. You will not be asked to leave the hospital between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. even if your 48
(or 96) hours is over. However, you will be encouraged to leave by 11
a.m. the next day.
Do I have to stay in the hospital for at least 48 (or 96) hours?
No. You may choose to leave if your doctor or nurse midwife AND you agree that you are ready to be discharged from the hospital prior to 48 (or 96) hours.
If I choose to be discharged before 48 (or 96) hours will my baby be discharged with me?
Your baby will be discharged with you only if your baby’s doctor or nurse practitioner agree that the baby is ready to go home.
Are there any special follow-up arrangements made for my baby and me if we leave the hospital before 48 (or 96) hours?
Under Massachusetts state law, you have the right to at least one home visit by a nurse or doctor if you leave the hospital before 48 (or 96) hours. During the home visit, the doctor or nurse will make sure that both you and your baby are healthy and will answer any questions you might have. A small blood sample may be taken from your baby for a newborn test.
The hospital will arrange this visit for you, but you should talk with your nurse or doctor if you want a visit. Your health insurance may or may not pay for this home visit.
When will the home visit occur?
The home visit will occur within 48 hours after you go home from the hospital. Please be sure to give your nurse the address and phone number where you will be staying when you leave the hospital.
Do I have to accept a home visit if I leave the hospital before 48 (or 96) hours?
No. You can decide whether or not you want a home visit.
What does my health insurance plan cover?
ALL health insurance plans are required to pay for a 48 hour hospital stay after giving birth (or 96 hours after birth if you have a Cesarean birth). SOME health plans are required to pay for a home visit if you decide to leave the hospital early.
How do I find out if my health insurance plan will pay for a home visit if I decide to leave the hospital before 48 (or 96) hours?
Before you arrive at the hospital, contact your health plan or your employer to find out if your health plan will pay for a home visit.
For more information
If you have questions about your rights when you have a baby, talk to your doctor, nurse, or midwife, or call the Massachusetts Department of Public Health at 617-624-6095 or
1-800-531-6667.