If you’re a breastfeeding mom, a breast pump can be a lifesaver. It allows you to express milk so you can store it and feed it to your baby later, which can be especially helpful if you’re returning to work or need to be away from your baby for extended periods of time. But breast pumps can be expensive, so many moms wonder if they can get a breast pump through their health insurance.
The good news is that many health insurance plans cover breast pumps. In fact, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires most health insurance plans to cover breastfeeding support, supplies, and counseling, including breast pumps, as part of their preventive care benefits. This means that if you have a health insurance plan that was purchased or began after the ACA was implemented in 2010, you may be eligible to get a breast pump at no cost to you.
Here’s how to get a breast pump through your health insurance:
Check your health insurance plan.
The first step is to review your health insurance plan to see if it covers breast pumps. You can do this by looking at your plan’s summary of benefits or by contacting your insurance company directly. Most insurance companies have a customer service hotline that you can call to ask about your benefits.
Choose a breast pump.
Once you’ve confirmed that your health insurance plan covers breast pumps, it’s time to choose the right breast pump for you. There are several types of breast pumps to choose from, including manual pumps, electric pumps, and hospital-grade pumps. Consider your needs and preferences when selecting a breast pump. For example, if you’re returning to work, you may want a breast pump that is quick and efficient, such as an electric pump.
Get a prescription from your doctor.
In order to get a breast pump through your health insurance, you’ll need a prescription from your doctor. Your doctor can write a prescription for a breast pump and provide it to you or directly to the insurance company or breast pump supplier.
Choose a breast pump supplier.
Your health insurance plan may have a list of approved breast pump suppliers that you can choose from. These suppliers will typically provide you with the breast pump and any necessary accessories, such as bottles and storage bags. Some insurance plans may require you to pay a small copay or deductible for the breast pump, while others may cover it completely. Be sure to check with your insurance company to understand your out-of-pocket costs.
Submit a claim to your insurance company.
Once you’ve received your breast pump, you’ll need to submit a claim to your insurance company in order to be reimbursed. You’ll need to provide your insurance company with a copy of your prescription, your receipt for the breast pump, and any other relevant documentation. Your insurance company will then process the claim and reimburse you for the cost of the breast pump, minus any copays or deductibles that you may owe.
Getting a breast pump through your health insurance can be a simple and cost-effective way to support your breastfeeding journey. By following these steps, you can make sure that you have the right breast pump for your needs and that your insurance company covers the cost. Happy breastfeeding!
