Disclaimer: I was not compensated in any way for this post. The information was provided to me by Medela, and is of interest to my readers.
Medela recently launched a new breastpump navigator to help expecting moms and dads take advantage of the lactation support coverage provided to them under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
The supplier lookup asks consumers to simply select their insurance provider and their state in order to find the local and national suppliers that could provide them with an insurance-covered Medela breastpump. The results also note other services each supplier provides from lactation consulting to rental pumps to other breastfeeding accessories.
Below please find a complete list of tools to help moms navigate breastfeeding coverage under the ACA:
- Find an Insurance-Covered Pump: Moms simply enter their insurance carrier and state to find a list of suppliers and their contact information. The search results will also indicate which suppliers have lactation services. Medela’s breastpump navigator tool will continue to expand as more information is provided to them by suppliers.
- Insurance Coverage Research – What It Means to You: A top line summary of what insurance companies told Medela about how moms can obtain the breastpump they need for their babies. (Check out this infographic for a quick visual of the results.) Examples tips:
- You don’t have to go without. Most plans require you to get your pump from an in-network provider. However, 76% of plans surveyed are also flexible if the covered pump isn’t available, letting you choose another pump or even reimbursing your purchase from a retail store. Just ask!
- You don’t have to go it alone. Breastfeeding moms, rejoice! Nearly all plans cover lactation counseling without a co-pay. Pump coverage + lactation support = successful breastfeeding more accessible to more moms.
- Coverage Questions You Should Ask Your Insurance Company: Scenarios moms may find themselves in and the questions they should ask their insurance providers