
Insurance coverage for a second breast pump can vary depending on the type of insurance and the reason for needing a second pump.
Many insurance plans, such as Medicare and Medicaid, cover the cost of a second breast pump if it's medically necessary, like if the first pump is damaged or not working properly.
Some insurance plans may also cover a second pump if the user has twins or multiples, as this often requires more frequent pumping.
In general, it's best to check with your insurance provider to see what's covered and what's not.
Insurance Coverage
Insurance coverage for breast pumps varies by provider, but most insurance companies cover at least one breast pump per new pregnancy under the Affordable Care Act.
You can check your insurance coverage by completing a qualification form, and a specialist will reach out with more information on which breast pumps are covered and their costs.
Insurance companies have unique guidelines for breast pump coverage, so it's essential to know what's covered and what's not. The following may vary depending on your health care coverage: which kinds of breast pumps are covered, their cost, how much and what kind of coverage is provided, when the breast pump can be shipped to you, and the duration of payment on rental pumps.
Most insurance providers cover one breast pump for each new pregnancy, so you don't have to reuse a breast pump from a previous pregnancy. However, if your old breast pump was kept clean, sanitized, and safely stored, and you ordered new parts for its continued use, it can potentially be reused.
Your insurance should also cover specific necessary supplies for the breast pump you choose, such as milk storage bags, new breast pump flanges, and hose lines (if applicable). Some insurance plans may also cover pregnancy support, postpartum recovery, and lactation classes.
An important consideration is that the ACA prohibits charging a deductible or copay for a breast pump, making breast pumps more accessible. However, certain types of pumps or supplies aren't typically eligible, such as on-the-go pump options, which might require an extra payment.
Here's a quick rundown of what you can expect from your insurance coverage:
- Most insurance providers cover one breast pump per new pregnancy.
- Insurance companies cover necessary supplies, such as milk storage bags and new breast pump flanges.
- The ACA prohibits charging a deductible or copay for a breast pump.
- Certain types of pumps or supplies, like on-the-go options, might not be covered.
Maximizing Coverage
Most insurance providers cover one breast pump for each new pregnancy, so you don't have to reuse a breast pump from a previous pregnancy.
To maximize your coverage, it's essential to understand what's covered and what's not. Depending on your health care coverage, the following may vary: the types and brands of pumps, the cost, and the duration of payment on rental pumps.
You should also be aware that insurance companies have different guidelines for coverage and benefits. Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), health insurance plans provide coverage for breastfeeding support, counseling, and equipment.
Here are some things to consider when maximizing your coverage:
- Which kinds of breast pumps are covered, and their cost (some pumps are fully covered while others may require a small, out-of-pocket fee)
- How much and what kind of coverage is provided (some insurances also cover pregnancy support, postpartum recovery, and lactation classes, as well as milk storage bags and additional pump parts)
- When the breast pump can be shipped to you (before or after birth)
- The duration of payment on rental pumps (which require medical necessity)
It's also worth noting that certain types of pumps or supplies aren't typically eligible, such as on-the-go pump options or additional supplies like storage bags or extra parts.
Sources
- https://aeroflowbreastpumps.com/blog/can-i-get-a-breast-pump-through-insurance
- https://www.consumerreports.org/babies-kids/breast-pumps/breast-pump-through-insurance-a2435099804/
- https://www.caringtouchmed.com/does-insurance-cover-breast-pump-each-pregnancy/
- https://breastpumps.byramhealthcare.com/blog/2021/02/22/12-common-questions-about-getting-a-breast-pump-through-insurance
- https://insurancecoveredbreastpumps.com/faq/
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