Breast Pump through Insurance: Everything You Need to Know

Being a new mom comes with a lot of responsibilities and ensuring the health and well-being of your newborn is your top priority. One of the essential items that you need to have as a new mom is a breast pump. A breast pump helps in expressing milk from the breast, which can be used to feed the baby when the mom is out or if the baby is having difficulty in latching onto the breast.

Buying a breast pump can be expensive, but there is good news for new moms. Many insurance companies cover the cost of a breast pump, making it accessible for everyone. In this article, we will discuss everything that you need to know about getting a breast pump through your insurance.

What is a Breast Pump?

A breast pump is a device that is used to express milk from the breast. It can be an electric or manual device that helps to stimulate the breast and express milk efficiently. It is a useful tool for moms who are not able to breastfeed their baby directly or want to accumulate milk for later use.

How Does a Breast Pump Work?

A breast pump works by creating suction on the breast that helps to release milk from the breast. When the breast is stimulated, milk is released, and the pump extracts the milk from the breast into a container that can be used to feed the baby later on.

The suction created by the breast pump imitates a baby’s sucking action, which stimulates the breast and encourages milk production.

Why Do You Need a Breast Pump?

There are several reasons why you might need a breast pump:

• You are going back to work or school and want to continue breastfeeding your baby.
• Your baby is having difficulty latching onto the breast.
• You want to accumulate milk for later use.

Types of Breast Pumps

There are two types of breast pumps to choose from:

• Manual breast pumps – These pumps are operated by hand, which makes them affordable and easy to use, but can be tiring to use for extended periods of time.
• Electric breast pumps – These pumps are powered by batteries or electricity and are more efficient than manual pumps. They are faster and easier to use, making them a popular choice for working moms.

Getting a Breast Pump through Your Insurance

Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), most insurance companies are required to cover the cost of a breast pump for new moms. However, coverage can vary among insurance companies, so it is essential to check with your insurance provider to see what type of coverage is available.

What Types of Breast Pumps are Covered by Insurance?

Insurance companies typically cover the cost of a standard electric or manual breast pump. However, some insurance companies may offer coverage for hospital-grade breast pumps, which can be rented or purchased.

When Can You Get a Breast Pump?

Most insurance companies provide coverage for a breast pump either before or after the baby is born. Some insurance companies may require a doctor’s prescription before providing coverage.

How to Get a Breast Pump through Your Insurance

To get a breast pump through your insurance, you will need to follow these steps:

• Contact your insurance provider.
• Ask about the coverage available for a breast pump.
• Get a prescription for a breast pump from your doctor.
• Submit the prescription to your insurance company.
• Select a breast pump from a list of approved providers.
• Receive the breast pump from the approved provider.

FAQs

Do I Need a Prescription to Get a Breast Pump Through Insurance?

Most insurance companies require a prescription from your doctor before covering the cost of a breast pump.

Can I Choose Any Breast Pump that I Want?

Insurance providers typically have a list of approved breast pumps that are covered under their plan. You will need to choose a breast pump from the list of approved providers.

Can I Get a Hospital-Grade Breast Pump Through Insurance?

Some insurance companies may offer coverage for hospital-grade breast pumps, which can be rented or purchased. You will need to check with your insurance provider to see if this type of breast pump is covered.

Can I Get a Breast Pump Before the Baby is Born?

Most insurance companies provide coverage for a breast pump either before or after the baby is born. You will need to check with your insurance provider to see what type of coverage is available.

How Long Will It Take to Get a Breast Pump Through Insurance?

The time it takes to get a breast pump through insurance can vary depending on your insurance provider and the approval process. It is essential to contact your insurance provider early to ensure that you receive your breast pump in a timely manner.

Conclusion

Getting a breast pump through your insurance can save you a lot of money and make it more accessible for new moms. It is essential to check with your insurance provider to see what type of coverage is available and how to apply for a breast pump. A breast pump is a valuable tool that can help new moms provide the best nutrition for their baby.