Thanks to the Affordable Care Act the health care law requires that MOST health insurance plans provide breastfeeding equipment ands counseling services for pregnant and/or nursing women. You may qualify to get breastfeeding equipment at little to no cost at all. Most mom to be's and new mommies are not aware of this law and end up spending hundreds of dollars on a breast pump. (I hope you kept your receipt!)
This health care law applies to the Health Insurance Marketplace plans and all other health insurance plans, with the exception of granfathered plans. Your health insurance must cover the cost of a breast pump. According to which company and plan you have, they may offer a rental or one that will be completely yours. My insurance company (Cigna-West) is providing me with one that I can keep.
Manual or Electric
There are certain guidelines, per insurance company on whether they will provide you with a manual pump or an electric pump, how long you can keep the pump (if applicable), and when you will receive it. (before or after birth) Styles and Brands of pumps vary also!
More Info....
Some insurance companies require pre-authorization or a prescription from your doctor. Contact your Insurance company form more information and details concerning what is covered through your plan and for more info on breast feeding benefits available to you!
My Personal Experience....
I currently have coverage through Cigna West and I contacted them about my breast feeding benefits. According to my plan here is what I found out!
When I called I was directed to a company called Care Centrix. Once on the line with a rep I was informed that I must be at least 28 weeks pregnant to be approved for a breast pump. Being that I was not that far along at the time the nice rep encouraged me to call back but she also left me with some valuable information so that I could be prepared when I was ready to call back.
She informed me that my doctor would have to call or fax in a RX (the form was provided by Care Centrix) 2-3 weeks prior to my due date. She also provided me with information on the two breast pumps that were available for me to choose from. The choices were the Ameda Purely Yours and the Madela Freestyle. I haven't made a choice yet but I will soon because i will be 28 weeks in one week. She again reminded me to have my Dr. call or fax in the RX 2-3 weeks prior to my due date to ensure enough time for delivery.
Overall the experience so far was pleasant and I hope that when I call back I will have the same type of experience. I'll be sure to keep you updated!
Contact your insurance provider for more information.
Disclaimer: This is based solely on my personal experiences and does not reflect other outcomes. All outcomes are not the same.
Info provided by healthcare.gov
Images courtesy of ameda.uk.co
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