How to Receive an Insurance Covered Breast Pump

If you are planning on breastfeeding, you will find lots of benefits in using a breast pump. Breast pumps are not only beneficial for babies, but for mothers as well. Pumping allows for increased breast milk supply, relief for engorged breasts, convenience when needing to feed your baby in various locations or if you cannot be physically present, and can help your baby receive the necessary nutrients if they have a hard time latching.  

Mothers who need to go back to work, on a trip, or any other reasons they may not be able to be with their child would find pumping helpful. Pumping also allows for a caregiver or partner to feed the baby.  

Breast pumps can be expensive, but luckily, many insurance plans will cover a breast pump. Receiving an at no cost breast pump with insurance plays a crucial role in supporting new moms.

5 Simple Steps to Receiving your Breast Pump At No Cost through your Insurance

Step 1: Complete the Insurance Eligibility Form 

Make sure to include your full insurance member ID, including any prefix characters. This helps us quickly verify your eligibility. 

  • If you include your doctor’s phone number on the form, we'll reach out to their office directly.  

  • For your convenience, we offer an option to upload a copy of your insurance card. This ensures that we have all the necessary details to process your request smoothly. 

Step 2: Insurance Verification

Our maternal care team will review your insurance and eligibility, confirming the breast pumps your insurance covers. 

Step 3: Prescription Request 

Next, we'll contact your provider to request a prescription for a breast pump on your behalf. Before we can order your breast pump, we must have your prescription.  

Step 4: Order and Delivery

Once we have worked together to choose the best breast pump that’s right for you, Maternal will place the order and ship it directly to your door. We’ll keep you updated with tracking and delivery details along the way. 

Step 5: Complimentary Lactation Support 

Once your pump arrives, you’re eligible to sign up for complimentary lactation support with one of our International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants.  

Understanding Insurance Coverage for Breast Pumps 

Thanks to the Affordable Care Act (ACA) insurance plans are required to cover the cost of a breast pump. This can be a rental unit, or a brand new one that you can keep. Each insurance plan has different guidelines, coverage options, and benefits, so it is important to contact your insurance and see what you will be provided with. Some things that may vary between insurance companies are… 

  • The type of breast pump and whether it is fully or partially covered. 

  • What else is provided along with the breast pump, some plans include lactation support, classes, milk storage bags, and additional pump parts. 

  • When you need to order your breast pump. 

  • When you will receive your breast pump.  

There are various types of breast pumps that fit different needs. Insurance plans can provide these as a rental or brand new for new moms to keep.

  • The strongest breast pump is a hospital-grade breast pump. A mom might need a hospital grade breast pump because it has very high power, this is crucial for moms with a low milk supply, a premature or sick baby, and for managing breastfeeding for multiple births. Hospital grade breast pumps help maintain a milk supply, especially when babies have a hard time latching or are facing medical conditions. Most insurance plans do not cover hospital grade breast pumps unless it is a medical necessity. If you feel like you would qualify for a hospital-grade breast pump, review your plan and reach out to your insurance provider.  

  • Electric breast pumps can be single or double, allowing for one or both breasts to be pumped simultaneously. These pumps can be as strong as hospital grade breast pumps, and likely have hospital-strength, but do not have the same programming, wavelength, or features. Electric pumps are designed for ease of use, efficiency, and comfort, making them popular and common for moms who pump frequently. These are the most common types of breast pumps. 

  • A manual breast pump is a hand operated pump, it consists of a breast shield and a handle. Moms might choose a manual pump for its simplicity and affordability. Manual pumps are beneficial for moms who pump occasionally. Although they are not as automated as electric pumps, manual pumps offer convenience and flexibility for breastfeeding mothers. 

Most insurance plans cover one pump per pregnancy, which is why it is common for moms to pay out of pocket for an additional pump. Having two pumps is beneficial when it comes to traveling, working, or any other scenario where having a smaller pump would come in handy.  

FAQ: Getting an Insurance Covered Breast Pumps 

  • Most insurance plans cover one breast pump for each new pregnancy, this way moms do not have to reuse a breast pump for each of their children. Because typically only one breast pump is covered with insurance it is important to keep your pump clean and sanitized. Check out our guide and blog on how to best clean your breast pump. 

  • In some cases, a breast pump provided by insurance can be upgraded for an additional out of pocket cost. These upgrades can include extra bottles, ice packs, a tote bag, a milk cooler, and other essential accessories. While insurance plans will cover the cost of a pump, they typically will not provide extra accessories. However, you have the option to receive these valuable accessories by paying an additional cost, enhancing your breastfeeding experience and convenience.  

  • It is not recommended to add a breast pump on your registry if you have health insurance. Since breast pumps can be expensive, taking advantage of a covered breast pump with insurance is beneficial. This allows new moms to ask for other essential items on their registry. 

  • At Maternal by Sentido, we offer complimentary lactation support with each order of a breast pump. Read about the benefits of lactation support in your breast feeding or pumping journey.

Best Tips for Receiving an Insurance Covered Breast Pump:

Communicating with Your Insurance Provider  

Best Questions to Ask: 

  • What types of breast pumps are covered in my plan? 

  • Are there any specific brands or models that are preferred/recommended? 

  • Do you offer upgrades for my breast pump and if so, what are the additional costs? 

  • Are there any restrictions or conditions that I should be aware of? 

 Document Conversations: Write down and keep records of all conversations with your insurance provider, including dates, names, and details of discussions. This is beneficial to look back on if there are any misunderstandings or if you find yourself forgetting any valuable information.  

Working with Your Healthcare Provider

Openly Discuss Needs and Preferences: Be open and honest with your healthcare provider about your goals, challenges, and preferences  when it comes to your breastfeeding journey. They can provide valuable information, guidance, and support in selecting the right breast pump. 

Ensure all Paperwork is Properly Filled Out: Double-check all paperwork for your covered breast pump prescriptions. This will ensure that the process of receiving your pump goes as quickly and smoothly as possible. 

Encouragement for New Mamas 

Breastfeeding is a very beneficial choice for both moms and babies. Utilizing a breast pump can significantly enhance the breastfeeding journey, providing flexibility and peace of mind. By obtaining an insurance covered breast pump, moms can lessen the financial burden and ensure that they have the best possible equipment to support breastfeeding goals 

Moms remember, you are not alone in this journey. Resources, support, and communities are available to help you in every step of the way, just like Maternal By Sentido. The effort you put into understanding your insurance coverage, selecting the best pump for you, and preparing ahead will pay off and create a more manageable and successful breastfeeding experience. Every step you take in your breastfeeding journey is a step towards a healthier and happier baby.  

Why Maternal by Sentido is the Best Place to Order your Breast Pump 

Maternal by Sentido is a proud and trusted member of many insurance’s breast pump providers list. We take our role in supporting new moms seriously and are committed to offering exceptional care. With the guidance of Lactation Consultants and Registered Dietitians, we ensure that every mom who chooses us will receive the best support possible. 

At Maternal, we believe moms shouldn’t feel alone in their maternal health journey and are here to guide you through every stage. Let us handle the mental and financial burden of ordering a breast pump, so you can focus on what matters most. 

When you order an insurance covered breast pump through Maternal by Sentido, you'll also receive complimentary lactation support from one of our IBCLCs. Our experienced team is here to address any questions or concerns you may have during your breastfeeding journey. Not familiar with lactation consulting? Learn more about the important benefits here.  

Connect with Maternal by Sentido

Our team is dedicated to providing the highest quality breast pumps through insurance and getting to know you as a mom and guiding you through your maternal health journey.  

Maternal by Sentido has an online community offering informative blogs, downloadable material, and social media that will carry you through your maternal health journey. 

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