For moms who are nursing their children, a breast pump through insurance might be useful. When you are unable to feed your infant, someone else can help by pumping to increase your milk supply. For example, a breast pump is a crucial device for breastfeeding your baby at a post-work.
Additionally, it lets you express breast milk for a spouse or caretaker to use while you are not there. Moreover, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) allows new mothers to receive free breast pumps and supplies through their insurance. In this article, we will show you some ways to obtain a breast pump through insurance.
What Type of Breast Pump Is Covered By Insurance
You may keep up your milk supply by using a breast pump in between regular breastfeeding sessions. For instance, UnitedHealthcare benefit plans offer a double-electric breast pump for personal use at no extra charge. These are the most widely used pumps, and they function very much as a nursing baby would.
Moreover, you should reach out to the national breast pump providers mentioned below to find out which brands are included. Also, hospital-grade (multi-user) pumps, hands-free pumps, and manual breast pumps are some other types of breast pumps.
How to Get a Breast Pump Through Insurance
Firstly, a free breast pump is not the same as an outdated, twenty-year-old device that will eventually become obsolete. Most health insurance plans cover some of the best breast pumps, providing a brand-new pump instead of a used one. Additionally, you will be asked to enter your state of residence and health insurance provider when you visit your insurer.
Your insurer will provide you with a list of immediate coverage options for breast pump alternatives, including upgrade options for higher-quality gear. Then, you choose your favorite pump and fill out the order form. Your provider will ask your physician for a prescription for a breast pump and confirm that your insurance covers it.
Furthermore, a brand-new breast pump is shipped free of charge and delivered right to your house. The most crucial step in acquiring a breast pump through your insurance is checking your plan’s coverage guidelines. However, there are a few other things to be aware of as well.
Are Breast Pumps Free Through Insurance
Your health insurance plan will cover 100% of the cost of some breast pumps. However, your insurance company may have restrictions on the kind of breast pump you may purchase, such as just specific brands or manual vs. electric. Furthermore, some programs could only let you rent the pump rather than own it.
If you buy your breast pump, you may be reimbursed up to a certain amount by other kinds of health insurance coverage.
How Much Does Breast Pumping Through Insurance Cost
The Affordable Care Act mandates insurance companies to offer breast pumps and related supplies to expectant or recently born members at no cost. Additionally, the problem is that the ACA is silent on the type of breast pump that insurers are required to provide coverage, including the range of prices. For this reason, the coverage provided by breast pumps differs greatly depending on the type of insurance you have.
What If Your Insurance Doesn’t Cover Breast Pumps
You may be able to obtain an electric pump if your insurer doesn’t cover it if you have one of those grandfathered plans. This may occur when pumping is necessary due to medical reasons, such as preterm birth or other nursing-related conditions. These conditions include cerebral palsy or Down syndrome, or if you are experiencing supply issues. However, all you will need is a statement from your physician or a prescription saying that you require an electric pump for medical reasons.
Final Thought
For parents who desire to breastfeed but require the extra flexibility that bottle-feeding may offer, pumping can be incredibly beneficial. The simplest way to begin is to purchase a breast pump that is reimbursed through your health insurance company.
FAQs
Does my insurer need me to wait until my child is born before getting my breast pump?
No, you can get your breast pump up to six months in advance and six months after childbirth, with delivery expected within 5–10 days after shipping.
What type of breast pump does insurance cover?
Some insurance companies provide various options, such as double-electric, single-electric, battery-operated, and manual models, while others offer only one or two options.
Do I have the option to upgrade my breast pump?
Some insurance providers and DME suppliers may offer upgrades to expensive pumps if a portion of the cost is paid, with the website highlighting upgrades with a dollar amount for each upgrade.
Will I have to pay anything toward a hospital-grade breast pump?
Yes, the pump can cost up to $2,000. If eligible, insurance covers a rental, and you may need to purchase a collection kit. Also, the costs are determined by your plan’s DME coverage, which can be checked by an insurance representative.