We believe every mother deserves access to the information that can protect her pregnancy. Our program is built to reach those who need it most — regardless of income, insurance, or zip code.
We consider multiple factors when reviewing applications. You do not need to meet every single criterion — we evaluate each application holistically.
Your household income falls at or below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). This threshold exists to ensure our grants reach families who genuinely lack financial access to specialized imaging. We use the most current HHS guidelines. Income includes wages, self-employment, Social Security, and other regular sources for everyone in your household. See the income table below for specific numbers by family size.
You are uninsured, or your current insurance plan does not cover Level 2 ultrasounds or specialist imaging. "Underinsured" includes situations where your plan covers the service in theory but your deductible, copay, or out-of-pocket maximum makes it financially out of reach. If you have insurance that would cover the scan in full, you may still contact us — coverage gaps and denials happen, and we will review your situation individually.
You live in a rural or underserved area where Level 2 imaging or maternal-fetal medicine specialists are not readily available. Geographic barriers are a real obstacle for many Kentucky families — long drives, lack of transportation, and limited local options create inequities in prenatal care. If accessing specialized imaging requires significant travel or hardship, that matters to us and will be considered in your application.
Your pregnancy has been identified as higher-risk by your prenatal care provider, or you have personal or family history that your provider believes warrants closer monitoring during pregnancy. We do not require a specific diagnosis or condition — if your OB or midwife has recommended a Level 2 scan or expressed concern about your pregnancy, that is meaningful context. You know your pregnancy best; tell us what you and your provider are watching for.
Level 2 anatomy scans are most clinically valuable between 14 and 24 weeks of pregnancy. This window allows for a thorough assessment of fetal anatomy, placental position, amniotic fluid, and umbilical cord structure. If you are outside this range, we still encourage you to apply — we review all circumstances, and earlier or later imaging may be appropriate depending on your clinical situation.
Approximate annual and monthly income limits at 250% of the Federal Poverty Level. These are guidelines — not hard cutoffs. Apply even if you are close to the limit.
| Household Size | Annual Limit | Monthly Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $36,450 | $3,038 |
| 2 people | $49,300 | $4,108 |
| 3 people | $62,150 | $5,179 |
| 4 people | $75,000 | $6,250 |
| 5 people | $87,800 | $7,317 |
| 6 people | $100,650 | $8,388 |
| Based on 250% of 2025 HHS Federal Poverty Guidelines. Figures are approximate. For households larger than 6, add approximately $12,850 per additional person annually. | ||
Income includes all sources for all household members. If your income is close to the limit or varies seasonally, please apply and explain your situation. We consider the full picture. Questions? Contact us.
A Level 2 scan is significantly more detailed than a standard prenatal ultrasound. Here is what the imaging typically includes.
A systematic evaluation of fetal structures including the brain, heart, spine, kidneys, limbs, face, and abdominal organs. The sonographer documents each system in detail, providing a thorough picture of your baby's development at the time of the scan.
A closer look at the four chambers of the fetal heart and the major vessels. While not a full fetal echocardiogram, the Level 2 scan includes a more thorough cardiac view than a standard anatomy scan, flagging areas that may warrant further evaluation.
Color Doppler imaging is used to assess blood flow through the umbilical cord and the placenta. This technology helps identify abnormalities in cord or placental circulation that may not be visible with standard ultrasound, providing important safety information for your care team.
The scan measures amniotic fluid levels, which provide important information about fetal kidney function, swallowing, and overall wellbeing. Both too little and too much fluid can be significant, and the Level 2 scan assesses this carefully.
The position, insertion, and structure of the umbilical cord and the location and appearance of the placenta are carefully evaluated. This is central to the mission of Colter's Watch — ensuring that cord-related findings are identified and communicated to your care provider.
Standard fetal measurements — head circumference, abdominal circumference, femur length, and estimated weight — are taken to assess how your baby is growing relative to gestational age. This data helps identify growth concerns early.
Financial need is an important part of our eligibility criteria, but it is not the only thing we look at. We understand that circumstances are complicated — income can be irregular, insurance coverage can be confusing, and not every situation fits neatly into a checklist.
We created Colter's Watch because we know what it feels like to wish there had been more information, more visibility, more time. We do not want paperwork or income thresholds to stand between a mother and a scan that could matter. If you are unsure whether you qualify, please apply anyway. Tell us your story. We will read it carefully.
We also recognize that access to a Level 2 scan does not guarantee any particular outcome — but information is power, and we believe every mother deserves to have it. That belief guides every decision we make.
If you think you may qualify — or even if you are not sure — we encourage you to apply when applications open. There is no cost and no obligation. We would love to help.
Apply for a GrantApplications are coming soon. Have questions in the meantime? Contact us.