How much do hospitals charge for donor breast milk?

The Cost of Donor Breast Milk in Hospitals
In recent years, the demand for donor breast milk has surged, particularly in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) where it is often used to support the health of preterm infants. However, the cost associated with obtaining this vital resource can be a significant concern for many families.
Pricing Overview
The price of donor breast milk varies widely depending on several factors, including the source of the milk and the specific hospital or milk bank involved. Generally, milk from established milk banks can cost between $3 to $5 per ounce. This pricing reflects the rigorous screening, pasteurization, and storage processes that ensure the milk is safe for consumption by vulnerable infants.
For example, a typical NICU might require several ounces of donor milk daily for a preterm infant, leading to substantial costs over time. Families can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $300 per week if their infants are on donor milk exclusively.
Insurance Coverage and Financial Assistance
The financial burden of donor milk can be alleviated in some cases through insurance coverage. Many insurance plans are beginning to recognize the medical necessity of donor milk for infants with specific health needs, particularly those born prematurely or with certain medical conditions. However, coverage can vary significantly by provider and policy, leaving some families to bear the full cost.
Additionally, some milk banks offer financial assistance programs to help families who may struggle to afford donor milk. These programs aim to ensure that all infants have access to this critical resource, regardless of their family’s financial situation.
The Value of Donor Milk
While the costs associated with donor breast milk can be high, many healthcare professionals emphasize its importance, particularly for preterm infants. Studies have shown that donor milk can significantly reduce the risk of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a serious intestinal condition that affects premature babies. The medical community increasingly views donor milk as a necessary intervention, making its cost a worthwhile investment in the health of vulnerable infants.
In conclusion, while the price of donor breast milk can be steep, especially in hospital settings, its potential benefits for infants in need make it a critical resource. Families navigating these costs should explore all available options, including insurance coverage and financial assistance, to ensure their infants receive the best possible care.

What are the disadvantages of donor breast milk?

Risks for the baby include exposure to infectious diseases, including HIV, to chemical contaminants, such as some illegal drugs, and to a limited number of prescription drugs that might be in the human milk, if the donor has not been adequately screened.

Why is donor milk so expensive?

Hospitals bear the cost of storing, preparing and supplying the milk, even when the milk itself is covered by insurance. A handful of hospitals have their own milk banks, but these can cost up to $150,000 annually to maintain. Even if a hospital prescribes donor human milk, it is an expense that many cannot afford.

What disqualifies you from donating breast milk?

You may be disqualified from donating breast milk if you: Have or are being treated for HIV, HTLV (human T-cell leukemia virus), hepatitis B or C, or syphilis. Have a sexual partner who is at risk for HIV, HTLV, hepatitis B or C, or syphilis. Have used recreational drugs within the last year.

How much is a bottle of donor milk?

Costs are based on our processing fees associated with milk safety including donor screenings, pasteurization, testing and packaging. 100 ml bottles are $10 each.

What are the disadvantages of donor milk?

Risks for the baby include exposure to infectious diseases, including HIV, to chemical contaminants, such as some illegal drugs, and to a limited number of prescription drugs that might be in the human milk, if the donor has not been adequately screened.

Is donor breast milk cheaper than formula?

Donor breast milk, however, is more expensive than many formulas, and may not contain sufficient amounts of key nutrients to ensure optimal growth for preterm or low birth weight infants.

How much do hospitals charge for donor milk?

Based on the price of DHM at US $4.00/ounce and the variable amounts of MOM that is supplied to NICU infants, the mean cost of providing DHM is between US $27.04 and $590.90 per infant.

How much is 1 oz of breast milk?

If you prefer to use milliliters, remember that one ounce = 30 ml. In this case, the baby should be getting approximately 2.6 ounces x 30 (or 78 ml) of breast milk at each feeding. You can put 3 ounces (or 90 ml) of breast milk in the bottle to feed a baby who weighs 8 lbs 4 oz (3.74 kg).

Does medical cover donor milk?

While donor milk is a covered benefit under Medi-Cal, existing law does not clearly define it as a covered benefit under commercial plans. AB 3059 would ensure that families with commercial insurance receive coverage for medically necessary donor milk.

Do you have to pay for donor breast milk?

Other hospitals providing pasteurized donor human milk to their patients are charged a processing fee only. This fee is paid for by the hospital, not the family, and covers the cost of screening, processing, bottling, testing, labeling, tracking, and overnight shipment of the frozen pasteurized milk.