
If you're considering purchasing an Elvie breast pump, you're likely wondering if insurance will cover the cost. Fortunately, many insurance plans do cover breast pumps, including the Elvie, to some extent.
Some insurance plans cover 50% to 100% of the cost of a breast pump, with an out-of-pocket expense ranging from $20 to $100.
Before making a purchase, it's essential to check your insurance plan's coverage for breast pumps. You can usually do this by contacting your insurance provider's customer service or reviewing your policy documents.
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Insurance Coverage
Insurance coverage for breast pumps varies widely depending on your plan, so it's essential to verify what's covered before you have your baby. Every plan has different rules, and coverage can change over time.
You'll need to call your insurance provider to find out what's covered and which pumps are offered. This is usually the best way to get accurate information, as coverage details can be complex.
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Most insurance plans require a prescription and sometimes additional documentation for coverage of a breast pump. This is why it's essential to request a prescription from your OB/GYN or physician after verifying your eligibility.
Insurance carriers may work with specific suppliers or provide a list of covered breast pumps for reimbursement. You can also use a supplier that handles paperwork and shipping for you, making the process smoother and less time-consuming.
Upgrade Costs Covered?
You're probably wondering if upgrade costs are covered under your insurance plan. The answer is no, not all plans cover upgrade costs. For example, Blue Shield does not cover upgrade costs and you'll need to pay out of pocket.
If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), you may be able to submit the upgrade cost for reimbursement. This is a great option if you're looking to upgrade your breast pump.
It's worth noting that not all insurance plans have the same rules, so it's best to check with your provider to see what's covered.
Insurance Coverage
You need to verify your eligibility with your insurance provider before getting a breast pump. Every plan is different, and every plan has different rules.
Call your insurance provider to make sure you're eligible for a breast pump, and ask about the specific benefits your insurance offers. According to the Department of Agriculture, calling your insurance provider before you have your baby is the best way to find out what's covered.
Most insurance plans require a prescription from your OB/GYN or physician to cover a breast pump. You'll need to request a prescription from your doctor after verifying your eligibility.
Your insurance carrier might have a list of preferred suppliers, or it may provide a list of covered breast pumps it will provide reimbursement for. This can make it easier to find a breast pump that's covered by your insurance.
Some suppliers, like Aeroflow and Babylist Health, will navigate the insurance hurdles on your behalf and take care of securing your doctor's prescription for you if needed. They'll also verify your benefits and tell you which pumps and supplies you're eligible for.
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In some cases, you can select your breast pump the same day after verifying your information with the supplier. However, the pump might not show up as fast as your last Amazon or Target delivery did, and it may take several weeks to arrive.
It's best to request a breast pump before your third trimester, so there's plenty of time before your baby arrives. This will also give you time to figure out any issues with your insurance coverage.
Your insurance provider may cover breast pumps at different times during pregnancy, so it's essential to understand the specific benefits your insurance offers.
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How to Request
To request an Elvie breast pump with insurance, you'll need to start by verifying your eligibility. Call your insurance provider to find out what's covered, which pumps are offered, and when you can order. You can also check your health plan ID card for a phone number to call.
You'll need a prescription from your healthcare provider to get an Elvie breast pump. Make sure to ask for one and note that you won't be reimbursed for a pump purchased at a retail store.
If you contact a breast pump supplier directly, they may ask for your doctor's name and phone number and the baby's due date or the date the baby was delivered. The supplier will check this information with your doctor before ordering the pump.
To make the process easier, you can use a supplier that handles paperwork and shipping for you. They can verify your benefits, tell you which pumps and supplies you're eligible for, and take care of ordering and shipping the breast pump to you.
Here's a list of steps to follow:
- Verify eligibility with your insurance provider.
- Get a prescription from your healthcare provider.
- Choose a supplier that handles paperwork and shipping.
- Submit your prescription to the supplier.
- Select your pump from the covered options.
Keep in mind that different insurance plans cover breast pumps at different times during pregnancy. It's best to request one before your third trimester, so there's plenty of time before your baby arrives.
Elvie Breast Pump Options
If you're considering an Elvie breast pump, you have several options to choose from. The Elvie Stride Double Electric Breast Pump is a powerful option that delivers hospital-grade suction and connects to an app for easy control.
You can also look into the Elvie Stride 2 Double Electric Breast Pump, which offers the same hospital-grade suction and app control, but with a better fit, feel, and flow. This pump is designed with top-spec noise reduction technology, making it perfect for discreet pumping sessions.
Insurance coverage can vary, but most insurance companies will cover one breast pump per pregnancy. However, wearable pumps like Elvie are considered upgrade items, requiring an additional out-of-pocket cost.
To determine your coverage, you can fill out the Elvie qualify form, which will prompt you with basic questions to verify your coverage. Some insurance plans may also cover breast pumps through groups like The Lactation Network.
Here are some key features of the Elvie breast pumps:
- Hospital-grade suction
- App control for easy settings and tracking
- Noise reduction technology
- Internal rechargeable battery
- Multiple size options
- 2-year manufacturer warranty on the hub and 90-day warranty on pump parts
Alternative Options and Resources
If you're having trouble getting a breast pump through your insurance, don't worry, there are alternative options available.
Your local La Leche League can be a valuable source of information, even if your insurance isn't cooperating.
You may be able to obtain a pump directly through your OB clinic using your insurance and can walk out with a pump after an OB visit.
WIC may also be able to assist in providing a pump if you qualify.
The Lactation Network offers free lactation services, which may be covered by your insurance benefits.
If you're having trouble getting coverage, you can submit an appeal through your insurance provider, and if that doesn't work, reach out to your state's Department of Insurance or Consumer Assistance Program.
The ACA prohibits charging a deductible or copay for a breast pump, making them more accessible.
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Sources
- https://www.blueshieldca.com/en/home/be-well/conditions-and-care-programs/breast-pump
- https://www.uhc.com/health-and-wellness/health-topics/pregnancy/breast-pumps
- https://www.consumerreports.org/babies-kids/breast-pumps/breast-pump-through-insurance-a2435099804/
- https://milknmamasbaby.com/how-to-get-a-breast-pump-reimbursement-from-your-insurance-company/
- https://aeroflowbreastpumps.com/breast-pumps/elvie/
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