If you want to breastfeed your child, one great tool to have on hand is a good breast pump. However, the price point of a good electric breast pump can be high. A quality breast pump can extend into hundreds of dollars. Fortunately, you may be able to get a breast pump for free from your insurance plan. However, navigating the process to get a free breast pump covered by your insurance can be complicated. Here are some tips to help you through the process:
What Is the First Step in Getting a Free Breast Pump?
The first step to getting a free breast pump is to call your insurance company to learn about any special details in your policy regarding breast pumps. You should do this before you give birth if possible, as the process can take some time and you want to have the breast pump as soon as your baby arrives. Some insurance companies have a special representative available for expecting mothers and all issues they need assistance with.
What Do You Need to Know Before You Call?
Before you call your insurance company, you need to do some research. First, think about the type of breast pump you would prefer to have. There are many types, including both single and double models. Some pumps are battery-powered while others must be plugged in. There are also manual breast pumps. When you call, know what type of pump you want so you can ask if that model is available through your insurance coverage.
The next thing you need to know is where your pump will come from. Most insurance companies will require you to go through a provider within your network. Your insurance may have an arrangement with an online medical supply provider that you simply contact and provide your medical information. Other insurers may require you to make an appointment with a doctor to get your breast pump as some companies require you to have a prescription. You also need to ask if you will pay upfront and wait for reimbursement or if the pump will be covered at the time of purchase. In most cases, you should receive the pump without having to pay money out-of-pocket but be prepared if that is not the case.
What If You Are Denied?
If you have requested a free breast pump through your insurance and you are denied, not all hope is lost. The first thing to do is to call your insurance provider and request an appeal. In many cases, a claim is denied because the insurance still has outdated information that may not include the new Affordable Care Act information that allows mothers to get a breast pump through insurance. Be persistent and make sure you talk to a specialist to get your free breast pump.
If you have questions or concerns about the latest health and medical news, then you're in the right place. Whether you are seeking up-to-the-minute information on vaccinations, bacterial and viral infections, cardiovascular disease, or how to reduce your risk for high blood pressure and diabetes, we can help. Our website features blog posts and articles that give you the medical information you need in terms that you can understand. You will also find helpful articles about many common medications that may include information about side effects, interactions, and contraindications. Other topics of interest you'll discover on our site are those pertaining to weight loss, exercise, and tips on how to enhance your emotinal health.