What will insurance cover for breastfeeding?

Understanding Insurance Coverage for Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not only a natural process but also a significant aspect of maternal and infant health. Recognizing its importance, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) has mandated that most health insurance plans cover various breastfeeding-related services and supplies. This coverage aims to support new mothers in their breastfeeding journey, ensuring they have access to necessary resources without financial burden.
What Insurance Covers
Under the ACA, health insurance plans are required to cover the following key components related to breastfeeding:
1. Breast Pumps: Insurance must cover the cost of a breast pump for mothers who are pregnant or have recently given birth. This includes both electric and manual pumps, although the ACA does not specify the type or price range of the breast pump that insurers must provide. This means that while mothers can expect coverage, the specific model or brand may vary based on the insurance provider.
2. Breastfeeding Counseling: Many plans are also required to cover breastfeeding counseling services. This support can be crucial for new mothers who may face challenges in establishing and maintaining breastfeeding. Counseling can include consultations with lactation specialists who provide guidance on techniques, addressing difficulties, and ensuring that both mother and baby are thriving.
3. Supplies and Accessories: In addition to breast pumps, insurance may cover other breastfeeding supplies such as milk storage bags, nursing pads, and breast shields. These items are essential for mothers who are pumping and storing milk.
4. Break Time and Private Space: Employers are also encouraged to provide reasonable break time for breastfeeding mothers to express milk and a private space that is not a bathroom. While this may not be directly covered by insurance, it is an important aspect of supporting breastfeeding in the workplace.
Financial Implications
The financial implications of breastfeeding versus formula feeding are significant. Breastfeeding can save families a considerable amount of money, with costs estimated at around $950 in the first year compared to approximately $1,110 for formula. By covering essential breastfeeding supplies and services, insurance helps alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with infant feeding.
Conclusion
In summary, health insurance coverage for breastfeeding is designed to support new mothers through essential services and supplies. The ACA ensures that most insurance plans provide coverage for breast pumps, counseling, and necessary breastfeeding supplies, making it easier for mothers to choose breastfeeding as a viable and beneficial option for their infants. This comprehensive support not only promotes better health outcomes for mothers and babies but also contributes to a more positive breastfeeding experience overall.

Are lactation consultants covered by insurance?

Usually, yes! The Affordable Care Act (ACA) mandates that health insurance plans cover breastfeeding support, counseling, and equipment for the duration of breastfeeding. Unfortunately, your lactation consultation coverage may vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have.

Do I need a prescription for a breast pump through insurance?

Yep! Breast pumps are medical devices, so insurance still needs an rx to put it through. I have United and had about 5 vendors to go through. I ended up going through McKesson/Target (I think), and I just emailed them the copy of the rx from my doctor. Super easy!

How many breast pumps will insurance cover?

Most insurers will only provide coverage for one breast pump per pregnancy. You can often qualify for this benefit up until one year postpartum. Even if you have secondary health insurance, you’re only able to use your breast pump benefit through your primary insurance plan.

How do I know if my insurance pays for a breast pump?

You can contact your obstetrician (OB/GYN) or hospital for information about providers in your area that may offer breast pumps or you can search for in-network DME suppliers by utilizing the Provider Finder under the Doctors & Hospitals tab of Blue Access for Members (BAM).

Does Blue Cross Blue Shield cover breast milk storage bags?

If you are a Service Benefit Plan member and are pregnant and/or nursing, you can order a breast pump kit and milk storage bags at no cost to you when you call 1-800-411-BLUE (2583). You can choose one of two available kits per calendar year—the Ameda Manual pump kit or the Ameda Double Electric pump kit.

What postpartum supplies does insurance cover?

Postpartum costs that may be covered by your insurance plan include:

• Breast milk storage bags.
• Breast pump tubing and supplies.
• Breast pumps.
• Breast shields.
• Lactation consultant.
• Postpartum compression garments.
• Mental health counseling.
• Postnatal care.

What is the best breast pump covered by insurance?

Top 10 Breast Pumps Covered by Insurance

1. Zomee Fit Wearable Hands-Free Breast Pump.
2. Ardo Calypso-To-Go Breast Pump.
3. Spectra S1 Plus Double Electric Breast Pump.
4. BabyBuddha 2.0 Breast Pump.
5. Medela Pump In Style with MaxFlow.
6. Motif Luna Breast Pump with Battery Bundle.

Will my insurance reimburse me for a breast pump?

Not only does the Affordable Care Act mandate free breast pumps through insurance but it also covers necessary supplies, support, and counseling for breastfeeding parents.

How soon should I order a breast pump through insurance?

In fact, most providers will offer you the option to order a free breast pump within a specific window after your baby is born. While we recommend getting your breast pump after birth as soon as possible, most providers let you request a breast pump through insurance from six to twelve months after birth.

How often can you get free breast pump through insurance?

How Often Can I Get a Breast Pump Through Insurance? The majority of insurance providers cover one breast pump for each new pregnancy, so you do not have to reuse a breast pump from a previous pregnancy—though some Medicaid plans may have additional limitations.