BCBS Coverage for Lactation Consultants and Support

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Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) coverage for lactation consultants and support varies by state and plan. BCBS offers a range of benefits, including coverage for lactation consultants, breast pumps, and lactation supplies.

In some states, BCBS covers lactation consultants as a preventive service, meaning they are covered without a copayment or coinsurance. This is the case in states like California and New York.

Here's an interesting read: Does Insurance Cover Lactation Consultants

Does BCBS Cover Lactation Consultants?

BCBS covers lactation counseling for Blue Local℠ members with Wake Forest Baptist, but it's not clear if this coverage extends to other members.

BCBS does not discriminate on the basis of certain characteristics in its health programs and activities.

Lactation Consultation Details

Lactation consultations can take place in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, breastfeeding centers, doctor's offices, and even in the comfort of your own home. The consultation may also be provided through online platforms.

Lactation consultations typically include a range of services, such as pre- and post-natal counseling, lactation classes, establishment of a lactation plan, and assessment of breastfeeding performance. These services are designed to help new mothers navigate any challenges they may face while breastfeeding.

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Some of the specific topics covered in lactation consultations include positioning techniques, latching to the breast, feeding cues, expression of milk, and use of a breast pump or supplementation if indicated. Additionally, lactation consultants can provide guidance on addressing breastfeeding-related situations, such as lactation-related breast conditions, inadequate milk transfer or supply, and other maternal factors.

Here are some common certifications held by lactation consultants, which may provide assurance of their expertise:

Lactation Consultation Explanation

A lactation consultation is a great way to get personalized help with breastfeeding. You can have one in-person at a hospital, clinic, breastfeeding center, provider's office, or even in the comfort of your own home.

Lactation consultants are covered as a no-cost preventive service for women, making it a convenient and affordable option.

If this caught your attention, see: Lactation Consultants Cost

Lactation Consultations Include:

Lactation consultations are a crucial part of the lactation care process, and they can take place in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, breastfeeding centers, doctor's offices, and even in the comfort of your own home.

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Lactation consultations typically include pre- and post-natal counseling about the initiation of breastfeeding and factors that may affect breastfeeding and lactation. This is a great opportunity for new mothers to ask questions and get personalized advice.

A lactation plan is established during the consultation to help guide the breastfeeding process. This plan is tailored to the individual mother's needs and goals.

Lactation consultants assess breastfeeding performance and evaluate milk transfer during the consultation. This helps identify any potential issues early on.

Counseling and instruction are provided on positioning techniques, latching to the breast, feeding cues, expression of milk, and use of a breast pump or supplementation if indicated. This comprehensive approach helps new mothers feel confident and empowered.

Some common breastfeeding challenges that lactation consultants address include lactation related breast conditions, inadequate milk transfer or supply, tongue tie, feeding multiple infants, and premature infants. They also provide guidance on special medical situations and maternal factors that may impact breastfeeding.

Here are some of the specific services that lactation consultants provide:

  • Pre- and post-natal counseling
  • Lactation classes
  • Establishment of a lactation plan
  • Assessment of breastfeeding performance and evaluation of milk transfer
  • Counseling and instruction on various breastfeeding techniques and equipment
  • Counseling to address common breastfeeding challenges

Lactation consultants are covered as a no-cost preventive service for women, making it more accessible and affordable for new mothers to get the support they need.

Insurance and Providers

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Through a partnership with The Lactation Network, those with BCBS PPO insurance plans are typically covered for 6 visits or more if needed at 100% coverage. You can confirm your coverage through The Lactation Network by completing a short form on their website.

Lactation consultants are covered as a no-cost preventive service for women. You can have an in-person lactation consultation at a hospital, clinic, breastfeeding center, provider's office, or your home. Online consultations are also available through CloseKnit.

The Lactation Network is a national provider of insurance-covered lactation care delivered by International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs). They provide lactation support via lactation consultations to families in need of care.

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Do You Take My Insurance?

I've worked with many clients who have insurance, and I've found that it's always a good idea to confirm coverage before your appointment. If you have Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO insurance, you're likely covered for 6 visits or more at 100% coverage through The Lactation Network.

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The Lactation Network is a national provider of insurance-covered lactation care delivered by International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs). They provide lactation support via lactation consultations to families in need of care.

If you have United PPO, BCBS PPO, Anthem PPO, Unicare PPO, VA CCN, some Harvard Pilgrim, or any subsidiary of these companies, you can get coverage through The Lactation Network. You can also check if your insurance company is listed on their website.

For clients with Cigna insurance, coverage will be available through Wildflower. The Lactation Network and Wildflower are medical billers who will bill your insurance company, and then use a portion of what they collect to pay you. There is no copay, no coinsurance, and no deductible.

Here's a list of insurance companies that are covered through The Lactation Network:

If you choose not to use a medical biller, you can pay for services upfront. Many insurance companies will reimburse for lactation consultations, but it's always a good idea to check with your insurance company about coverage prior to scheduling.

Anthem Blue Cross

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Anthem Blue Cross offers coverage through a partnership with The Lactation Network, allowing for 6 visits or more at 100% coverage if needed.

You can confirm your coverage by completing a short form on The Lactation Network's website, and you'll typically receive an email confirmation within 1 business day.

The Lactation Network will verify your coverage through Anthem Blue Cross Insurance Plans.

Services for New Mothers and Babies

As a new mom, it's essential to know that comprehensive breastfeeding support is covered by CareFirst. This includes lactation consultations as a preventive service for members who need help with breastfeeding.

CareFirst covers lactation consultations as a preventive service, making it easier for new moms to get the support they need. This is in accordance with CareFirst's Medical Policy.

In addition to lactation consultations, CareFirst also covers breast pumps and other women's services as preventive services. This is thanks to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can lactation consultants bill insurance?

Lactation consultants can bill insurance if their credentials are recognized by the insurer, with IBCLC being the most commonly accepted credential. Insurance coverage for lactation services varies by provider, so it's best to check with your insurance company for details.

Archie Strosin

Senior Writer

Archie Strosin is a seasoned writer with a keen eye for detail and a deep interest in financial institutions. His work often delves into the history and operations of Missouri-based banks, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of their roles in the local economy. A particular focus of his research is on Dickinson Financial Corporation and Armed Forces Bank, tracing their origins and evolution over the decades.

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