Breastfeeding is a natural and essential part of infant care, but many new moms face challenges that may require the use of a breast pump. One of the common questions new mothers ask is, “Does insurance cover breast pumps?” The good news is that many health insurance plans do provide coverage for breast pumps, thanks to changes in healthcare policies over recent years.
Does Insurance Cover Breast Pumps?
Yes, most insurance companies cover breast pumps as part of their maternal health benefits. Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), many insurers are required to provide breastfeeding support, including covering the cost of breast pumps, at no extra cost to the mother. However, there are differences in the level of coverage and the type of pump provided, depending on your insurance plan.
Types of Breast Pumps Covered by Insurance
When asking “Does insurance cover breast pumps?”, it’s essential to understand what type of pump is covered. Generally, insurance may cover:
- Manual Breast Pumps – These are typically less expensive and may be covered by basic insurance plans.
- Electric Breast Pumps – Many insurance plans cover electric breast pumps, but they might only cover certain brands or models.
- Hospital-Grade Pumps – These pumps are usually for rent and may be covered under certain circumstances, such as if your baby is born prematurely.
How to Get a Breast Pump Through Insurance
Here are the basic steps to get your breast pump through insurance:
- Check Your Coverage – Contact your insurance company to ask, “Does insurance cover breast pumps?” They will provide details on which types of pumps are covered and if there are any restrictions.
- Obtain a Prescription – Some insurance plans require a prescription from your healthcare provider, especially for hospital-grade pumps.
- Order Your Pump – You can either order through your insurance provider’s preferred suppliers or go through an approved retailer.
Does Insurance Cover Breast Pumps for All Types of Plans?
While most plans under the ACA cover breast pumps, there can be exceptions. Grandfathered health plans and short-term health insurance plans might not include this benefit. Always check with your provider to ensure you are covered.
FAQ
- Does insurance cover breast pumps for every pregnancy?
Yes, most insurance plans will cover a new breast pump for each pregnancy, though the specifics vary by provider. - Can I choose any breast pump brand?
Not always. Many insurance companies have a list of approved brands and models, so it’s important to check your options beforehand. - Does insurance cover breast pumps after the baby is born?
Yes, but it’s advisable to arrange this in advance, as many insurance companies allow you to receive the pump before your due date. - Will my insurance cover a hospital-grade breast pump?
Some insurance plans cover rental of hospital-grade pumps in special cases, such as if your baby is premature or has certain medical conditions. - Can I upgrade to a better breast pump?
In some cases, you may be able to upgrade to a more expensive model by paying the difference out of pocket.
