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How to Choose a Breast Pump

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How to Choose a Breast Pump

May 01, 2024

Choosing the right breast pump can seem overwhelming. Choosing your ideal breast pump is a decision best made after considering your needs and weighing all of the options.

Here are a few great questions to ask yourself to help choose the right breast pump for you.

how to choose a breast pump

When you’re looking at all of the breast pumps on the market, it can get a little overwhelming – and when you ask your mom friends for advice, that can make the decision even harder. One friend says her Medela helped build her stash before she went back to work. Another swears that her Spectra‘s fantastic suction makes for super-efficient pumping sessions. And one boasts that her Elvie is so quiet her coworkers have no idea she’s pumping in the next room. Yet another friend brags that her Willow makes it easier to, well, anything. How do you choose?

The multitude of pump types reflects the individual needs of lactating women, and what worked well for your mother or a friend may not work well for you. Choosing your ideal breast pump is a decision best made after considering your needs and weighing all of the options.

There are several factors that can help determine your ideal breast pump. Obviously your financial situation and what your insurance covers will factor into your decision, but the following are some points to consider when choosing a pump.

  1. How do you plan to use your breast pump? Here are a few additional questions to ask yourself: Are you using a pump in addition to breastfeeding, or will you be exclusively breastfeeding or exclusively pumping? Will your baby be in daycare or with a babysitter several hours of the day? Are you interested in building a “milk stash”? Are you returning to work or school?

  2. How much time will it take you to pump? The amount of time it takes to pump varies, but certain types of breast pumps may be easier to use and extract milk faster. If you plan to pump at work or do not have a lot of time to pump, you may want to consider a battery or electrically powered breast pump. A double pump (which extracts milk from both breasts at the same time) may also decrease the amount of time it takes to pump because both breasts can be emptied simultaneously.

  3. Are the pump’s instructions easy for you to understand? If possible, review the instructions included with several different pumps and choose a pump that is easy for you to assemble, use and clean. Most of the manufacturers have great YouTube channels with videos on breastfeeding, assembling your breast pump and troubleshooting. Reviewing any and all information that you can find will help you make your decision because the FDA prohibits the return of used breast pumps because they are personal care items.

  4. Where will you be using your pump? Manual and battery-powered pumps can be easy to transport and use in small spaces. Electric breast pumps require an outlet, and some moms find them more cumbersome. Luckily breast pump technology has advanced quite a bit, and even double electric breast pumps are relatively light and easy to transport.

  5. Do you need a pump that is easy to transport? If you travel frequently or plan to pump at work, consider buying a lightweight pump that transports easily in a carrying case that holds the pump and pumping supplies. It’s not uncommon for moms to have two breast pumps, one for work and one for home. If that’s not financially feasible, many moms like to have two sets of connection kits and bottles to make it easier to pump at work. That way you can ensure that you always have one set clean. If you plan to pump in the same place every time, you may not need to worry about how easy it is to transport.

Where Should You Get Your Breast Pump ?

When you’re preparing your baby to-do list, acquiring a breast pump might be something you just put on the gift registry because the store suggested it. But you should do some research first! Thanks to the ACA, most insurance companies now cover double-electric breast pumps. Typically the pumps that are covered at 100% are basic pumps, but many insurances permit moms to upgrade to a pump for an additional fee.

Insurance companies work with medical equipment suppliers like EHCS to provide breast pumps. Since 1992, we’ve been working with insurance companies and healthcare providers to provide the best medical equipment. We handle all of the paperwork, bill your insurance and ship your pump for free directly to your home. We’re in network with hundreds of insurances nationwide (including Aetna, Tricare, United Healthcare, many BCBS plans and more than 40 state Medicaid plans), and we carry only the best brands.

Want to know if your insurance covers breast pumps? Email us here or apply for a breast pump now!

We carry name-brand pumps!

Review Breast Pump Options


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Can you get a free breast pump through Medicaid?

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Can you get a free breast pump through Medicaid?

February 13, 2024

Sometimes determining if your Medicaid will cover a breast pump can seem confusing. Simple question, right? But the answer isn’t necessarily as easy.

Let Edwards Health Care Services help you determine your benefits and eligibility.

breast pump through medicaid, Can you get a free breast pump through Medicaid?

One easy way to find out is by completing our online application. EHCS will research your Medicaid plan and work with them to confirm your benefits and determine which breast pumps you’re eligible for.

One might assume it’s a straightforward matter, but the reality is more nuanced. According to the Health Insurance Association of America, Medicaid is basically a government-sponsored insurance program for folks of any age who don’t have enough resources and income to cover their healthcare costs. Under the Affordable Care Act, you can qualify for Medicaid if you make less than 133 percent of the federal poverty line. Currently nearly 70 million people (or 1 in 5 Americans) are enrolled in a Medicaid plan or Children’s Health Insurance Program.

Because plans are run by their states, eligibility and offerings differ across the United States. What you’re eligible for in Maine may not be the same as in Arizona. It may be confusing, but EHCS can help clarify things! We work closely with government and private insurance plans to provide covered medical supplies — including breast pumps — to eligible members.

We carry name-brand pumps!

APPLY ONLINE

Below is a sampling of the breast pumps that may be covered by a Medicaid plan. Please reach out to our breast pump team if you have questions about your eligibility or a specific pump. You may also apply online to get the process started.

Medicaid programs are funded by state and federal dollars, but states manage their own programs, which is partly why it’s hard to say, “yes, Medicaid covers breast pumps.” Another issue is that some states used managed care organizations (MCOs) to administrate their Medicaid programs, and each of those has its own rules.

The good news is that many state and managed Medicaid programs cover breast pumps, and your local WIC (Women, Infants and Children) office will be a great help in breastfeeding successfully.

So defining Medicaid isn’t simple, but finding out if you’re covered is. Edwards Health Care Services (EHCS) is in network with more than 40 state Medicaid programs (including plans in Ohio, Kentucky, Michigan, Massachusetts, Texas, Illinois, Virginia, South Carolina, Indiana, and more) throughout the United States, and they each have different guidelines.

Typically, Medicaid programs will not cover the breast pump until the baby is born, but we can help you get the process started so all you have to do is let us know when the baby arrives! We will handle the paperwork between Medicaid and your doctor’s office (a prescription for a breast pump is required), while you focus on getting ready for your new baby!

Find Out If Your Medicaid Covers Breast Pumps ?

We carry several Medicaid-approved, double-electric breast pumps, and we’re happy to talk with you about which pumps meet your eligibility requirements and needs. Email us here or apply for a breast pump now!

ameda breast pumps, medicaid breast pumps

medela breast pumps, medicaid breast pumps

 

spectra breast pumps, medicaid breast pumps

lansinoh breast pumps, medicaid breast pumps

Zomee Breast Pumps, medicaid breast pumps

Get a breast pump through Medicaid

APPLY ONLINE

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Spectra 9 Plus Breast Pump Offers Ultimate Portability, Customized Pumping Experience

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Spectra 9 Plus Breast Pump Offers Ultimate Portability, Customized Pumping Experience

April 06, 2022

The 9 Plus breast pump from Spectra is slim and lightweight; it basically fits in the palm of your hand! It runs on an inbuilt rechargeable battery so moms can pump whenever and wherever. With two-phase technology and a closed system, the 9 Plus is a great choice for moms looking for a comfortable and productive pumping experience.

Moms tell us that the small size is what really drew them to the 9 Plus, but they often end up surprised at how well the pump functions. Easily portable and great suction are not mutually exclusive with this specific model, but the 9 Plus has the same great suction capabilities as the bigger Spectra breast pumps. And the pump can fit into practically any bag – it’s a win, win situation!

Weighing under a pound, the Spectra 9 Plus won’t weigh you down, but still provides everything you need for a great breast pumping experience. The 9 Plus features the following:

  • Closed System means there’s a physical barrier between milk, moisture and the pump, ensuring hygiene and motor performance.

  • Double Pumping Kit (BPA-free kit comes with 24mm breast shields, two wide-neck collection bottles and caps, backflow protector and valve)

  • Inbuilt Rechargeable Battery and AC Power Adaptor

  • One Touch Adjustable Suction/Cycle (0-300 mmHg vacuum range and 30-46 RPM cycle length)

  • Bright LCD Display with Timer (also has an auto-shutoff feature, which is great for busy moms)

  • Advanced Massage/Expression Technology lets moms fine-tune the suction strength and cycle speed with a Massage mode that stimulates mom’s letdown reflex and an Expression mode that mimics the baby’s sucking rhythm.

  • Dimensions: 11.2 cm x 7.2 cm x 4.7 cm; 0.7 pounds

  • One-Year Warranty

You might think that a desirable pump like the Spectra 9 Plus wouldn’t be covered by insurance, but it is! Some insurances may require an upgrade fee, but it’s worth it for a customized pumping experience in a convenient package. Order yours through insurance now!


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EHCS Now Servicing Health Choice of Alabama Members

EHCS Now Servicing Health Choice of Alabama Members

April 06, 2022

Effective immediately, we’re thrilled to announce that Edwards Health Care Services (EHCS) is able to provide diabetes supplies (including testing supplies, insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors) and breast pumps for Health Choice of Alabama’s AL Premier Network.

New contract enables EHCS to provide diabetes management supplies and breast pumps

EHCS offers all major brands of breast pumps and diabetes supplies, and members will get the personalized service and expert guidance they deserve with EHCS. We take the stress out of medical supplies by handling all of the paperwork between the insurance and your doctor’s office, and our customer-focused reorder and auto-ship programs make it easy to follow doctor’s orders.

Diabetes Management

As the leader in diabetes care for more than 25 years, the EHCS Diabetes Care team understands how important it is to follow the treatment plan set by a customer’s doctor. Regardless of whether it’s your first insulin pump or continuous glucose monitor, you’re switching brands or you are newly diagnosed, the process of getting your diabetes supplies can seem overwhelming. That’s why EHCS will pair you with a Diabetes Care Advisor who will guide you through product selection, handle all of the paperwork and get your reorders started so that you’re able to stick with your healthcare plan.

Breast Pumps

Breastfeeding is one of the most effective preventive measures mothers can take to protect their health and the health of her baby, so it’s important that moms have the tools to provide breast milk even when they’re not nursing. Health Choice of Alabama recognizes how important this is, which is why it’s covering name-brand, double-electric breast pumps (including Medela and Spectra) for qualifying members. Complete the online application, and your very own breast pump expert will be in touch regarding product selection and next steps!

By adding Health Choice of Alabama, EHCS is expanding its coverage of Alabama residents with Health Choice who have commercial or Medicare Advantage plans. To enroll and learn more about EHCS, check out the Benefits of Enrollment online or call us at 888-344-3434. After you complete the online application, EHCS will pair you with an in-house expert to help you through the process. From insurance approval and product selection to future reorders, the EHCS team is your guide to better diabetes control.


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Medela Pump In Style with MaxFlow Now Available

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Medela Pump In Style with MaxFlow Now Available

April 06, 2022

Perfect For Moms Who Pump Several Times A Day!

Medela’s beloved Pump In Style® breast pump line is debuting a new member: The Pump In Style with MaxFlow™ Technology! This new pump is a double electric, single-user breast pump designed to maximize pumping efficiency.

Moms tell us that the small size is what really drew them to the 9 Plus, but they often end up surprised at how well the pump functions. Easily portable and great suction are not mutually exclusive with this specific model, but the 9 Plus has the same great suction capabilities as the bigger Spectra breast pumps. And the pump can fit into practically any bag – it’s a win, win situation!

Weighing under a pound, the Spectra 9 Plus won’t weigh you down, but still provides everything you need for a great breast pumping experience. The 9 Plus features the following:

  • Closed System means there’s a physical barrier between milk, moisture and the pump, ensuring hygiene and motor performance.

  • Double Pumping Kit (BPA-free kit comes with 24mm breast shields, two wide-neck collection bottles and caps, backflow protector and valve)

  • Inbuilt Rechargeable Battery and AC Power Adaptor

  • One Touch Adjustable Suction/Cycle (0-300 mmHg vacuum range and 30-46 RPM cycle length)

  • Bright LCD Display with Timer (also has an auto-shutoff feature, which is great for busy moms)

  • Advanced Massage/Expression Technology lets moms fine-tune the suction strength and cycle speed with a Massage mode that stimulates mom’s letdown reflex and an Expression mode that mimics the baby’s sucking rhythm.

  • Dimensions: 11.2 cm x 7.2 cm x 4.7 cm; 0.7 pounds

  • One-Year Warranty

You might think that a desirable pump like the Spectra 9 Plus wouldn’t be covered by insurance, but it is! Some insurances may require an upgrade fee, but it’s worth it for a customized pumping experience in a convenient package. Order yours through insurance now!

Highly Effective, Yet Easy To Use

Moms work hard all day, every day, and you don’t have time to set up, program and clean complicated breast pumps. That’s why Medela created the Pump In Style with MaxFlow, which maximizes your time and your pumping sessions. One of the quietest pumps available, the Pump In Style with MaxFlow features:

Medela Pump In Style with MaxFlow

The Pump In Style with MaxFlow breast pump comes in two configurations:

  1. Pump In Style with MaxFlow: The standard version of the pump is usually fully covered by most insurance plans and comes with everything you need to pump, including one set of 24mm breast shields, two bottles and a battery pack. Click here to learn more about the standard pump.

  2. Deluxe Pump In Style with MaxFlow: This version is typically an upgraded breast pump, and the fee depends on your insurance coverage. The deluxe version includes the standard Pump In Style with MaxFlow Technology pump and also includes two sizes of breast shields (21mm and 24mm), five bottles, a stylish bag and a cooler. Click here to learn more about the deluxe pump.

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Learn How to Get a Free Breast Pump

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Learn How to Get a Free Breast Pump

December 15, 2021

Planning for a new baby is expensive. Crib, diapers, car seat, stroller and more.

Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, you can leave a breast pump off the registry. Most insurance companies now cover breast pumps at 100% when you use an approved supplier like EHCS.

free breast pump, breast pump covered 100% by insurance, how to get a free breast pump

Affordable Care Act

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act – commonly called the Affordable Care Act, ACA or Obamacare – was signed into law in 2010 and went into effect in January 2013. Intended to increase the quality and affordability of health insurance, lower the uninsured rate and reduce healthcare costs. The ACA also acknowledged that breastfeeding is “one of the most effective preventative measures mothers can take to protect their health and that of their children.” An exciting provision of the ACA is the requirement* that health insurance plans cover breastfeeding support, counseling and equipment for the duration of breastfeeding – including breast pumps.

How do you get a covered breast pump?

Getting your breast pump free through insurance is easy when you use an approved supplier like EHCS. While most insurance policies cover breast pumps in some manner, policies do vary on whether they cover a manual or electric pump, if there’s a co-pay or deductible and whether a brand of pump is specified. If that seems confusing, don’t worry about it – let EHCS do the work.

We carry name-brand pumps!

Review Breast Pump Options

What breast pumps are available through insurance?

EHCS only carries high-quality, name-brand pumps from Medela, Ameda, Spectra, Zomee, and Lansinoh, which are normally covered by insurance. Brands typically offer one pump that is usually covered at 100%, and there are often upgrades available. Upgrade opportunities include different pumps with more features, carrying totes, coolers and more.

We work with many insurance companies nationwide, and we are adept at interpreting policies to make sure you’re getting what you deserve. If any out-of-pocket expenses are required (usually only required if you upgrade), we will give you a quote before proceeding with the order. We will never swap out the desired breast pump without your approval, but there may be an upgrade fee if your insurance company does not cover your desired pump.

Complete this enrollment form to get started!


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Breast Pumps Covered for CareSource Members

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Breast Pumps Covered for CareSource Members

August 12, 2021

Planning to breastfeed (yay!), but not sure what you’ll do when you go back to work? That’s when a breast pump becomes a game-changer. If you’re a CareSource member in Ohio, you can get a breast pump free through insurance when you use an approved supplier (like Edwards Health Care Services).

caresource breast pumps

Our Breast Pump Coordinators love helping CareSource moms get the right breast pump for their needs. When you’re able to, breastfeeding can be a great way to protect the health of your baby (and even your own health!). Through legislation, the tools to provide breast milk are covered by insurance, and that includes breast pumps.

We’re not just talking about manual pumps either; CareSource has great coverage for WIC moms and covers the following double-electric pumps at 100%:

  • Ameda Mya Joy PLUS

  • Lansinoh Signature Pro

  • Medela Pump In Style with Max Flow

  • Zomee Z2

Not sure which pump you want? Email breastpumps@myEHCS.com to speak with your own Breast Pump Coordinator who will help you understand options.

A prescription from your doctor is required to get your breast pump through CareSource, but no need to worry, that’s where we come in! EHCS works with your doctor’s office and insurance company to ensure all the necessary paperwork is correctly completed and all insurance rules are followed.

Do you have Ohio Medicaid with another plan? EHCS is in network with ALL Ohio Medicaid plans. Grab your insurance card and fill out this form, and we’ll verify your benefits, go over your coverage, work with your doctor and ship the pump to you at no cost.


Disclaimer: Not all insurance policies cover all breast pumps, some policies do not permit upgrades,. Your breast pump coordinator will walk you through the process, determine your coverage, explain the pumps you’re qualified for, and inform you of any available upgrades. Please note that your available brand and model will depend on your insurance plan and eligibility.


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Check out the benefits of breastfeeding

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Check out the benefits of breastfeeding

January 14, 2019

Breastfeeding is the best way to provide essential nutrients while also bonding with your child. However, it’s unrealistic to think you’ll be with your baby 24/7.

Breastfeeding is linked to a lower risk of various health problems for babies along with others, learn more below.

According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, breast milk has disease-fighting cells called antibodies that help protect infants from germs, illness, and even sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Breastfeeding is linked to a lower risk of various health problems for babies, including:

  • Ear infections
  • Stomach viruses
  • Respiratory infection
  • Atopic dermatitis
  • Obesity
  • Asthma
  • Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes
  • Childhood leukemia

Breastfeeding is the best way to provide essential nutrients while also bonding with your child. However, it’s unrealistic to think you’ll be with your baby 24/7. Breast pumps give you the freedom to go back to work, have a date night, or take an overnight trip while still providing your baby with the best food source possible. Pumping can make you more comfortable when you’re away, and if your baby is having trouble latching, pumping will keep your supply full while working through that issue. By pumping, you can stockpile breast milk for the times you’re unable to breastfeed. You can even sleep through a feeding while dad feeds the baby at 3 AM!

Many insurance companies cover breast pumps at 100%! Let Edwards Health Care Services do the work, obtain the prescription and necessary paperwork, and ship the insurance-covered pump directly to your home.

Want to know if your insurance covers breast pumps? Email us here or apply for a breast pump now!

QUALIFY NOW FOR A BREAST PUMP

QUALIFY TODAY!

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