Insurance Breast Pump Coverage: What You Need to Know

As a new mother, one of the most important things you can do for your baby is to breastfeed. Breastfeeding provides countless benefits to both you and your baby – it’s a great way to bond and it can also help your baby develop a strong immune system.

But let’s face it – breastfeeding can be tough, especially in those early days. That’s where a breast pump can come in handy. A breast pump allows you to express milk and then feed it to your baby later, making it an essential tool for moms who plan to go back to work or need to be away from their baby for extended periods of time.

The good news is that many insurance companies now provide coverage for breast pumps, making it easier and more affordable for new moms to get the support they need. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at insurance breast pump coverage and answer some common questions.

What is insurance breast pump coverage?

Insurance breast pump coverage is a benefit offered by many insurance plans that allows new mothers to receive a breast pump at little or no cost. Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), most health insurance plans are required to provide coverage for breastfeeding support and supplies, which includes breast pumps.

This means that eligible women can contact their insurance provider to inquire about the types of breast pumps that are covered and how to obtain one. The specifics of insurance breast pump coverage can vary depending on the insurance plan and the state you live in, so it’s important to do your research.

How do I know if I’m eligible for insurance breast pump coverage?

If you have health insurance, you’re likely eligible for insurance breast pump coverage. However, there are some exceptions. For example, if you have a grandfathered health plan, you may not be eligible for this coverage.

It’s also important to note that insurance breast pump coverage is typically limited to one breast pump per pregnancy. Some insurance plans may also require you to wait until a certain point in your pregnancy to request a breast pump.

What types of breast pumps are covered by insurance?

The types of breast pumps covered by insurance can vary depending on your insurance plan. However, most plans will cover either a manual or electric breast pump. Some plans may also cover hospital-grade pumps, which can be rented for a period of time.

Your insurance provider can provide more information about the specific types of breast pumps that are covered under your plan.

How do I obtain a breast pump through my insurance?

The process for obtaining a breast pump through your insurance can vary depending on your insurance provider. In general, you’ll need to follow these steps:

  1. Contact your insurance provider to inquire about their breast pump coverage.
  2. Provide your insurance provider with a prescription from your doctor or midwife. This prescription should indicate that you need a breast pump for medical reasons.
  3. Select a breast pump that is covered by your insurance plan.
  4. Place your order for the breast pump through a durable medical equipment (DME) supplier that is in-network with your insurance provider.

Your insurance provider can provide more detailed information about the steps you need to take to obtain a breast pump through their coverage.

FAQ

1. Does insurance breast pump coverage apply to rental pumps?

Many insurance plans will cover rental pumps under their coverage. However, the specifics of rental pump coverage can vary depending on your plan.

2. Can I get more than one breast pump through my insurance?

Insurance breast pump coverage is typically limited to one breast pump per pregnancy. However, some insurance plans may provide coverage for additional breast pumps under certain circumstances, such as if you have a premature baby.

3. Can I get a breast pump through my insurance after I give birth?

Yes, you can typically obtain a breast pump through your insurance after you give birth. However, some insurance plans may require you to wait until a certain point in your pregnancy to request a breast pump.

4. Can I choose any breast pump I want?

The breast pumps that are covered under your insurance plan will depend on your plan and your state. Some plans may only cover certain types of breast pumps or certain brands.

5. Can I get a breast pump through my insurance if I plan to exclusively pump?

Yes, you can still obtain a breast pump through your insurance even if you plan to exclusively pump.

Conclusion

Insurance breast pump coverage can be a valuable resource for new mothers who want to breastfeed their babies. By understanding the specifics of your insurance plan’s coverage, you can get the support you need to make breastfeeding a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Contact your insurance provider today to learn more about your coverage options.