TRICARE covers breast pump costs Published June 17, 2015 By Staff Sgt. Rachelle Blake 55th Wing Public Affairs OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. -- Tricare recently changed their policy and now covers manual, electric or hospital grade breast pumps with a prescription. Before the update, military members and their families were paying out of pocket for the products. "Medical providers, and families alike, are excited for this new coverage to begin because it is so supportive of breastfeeding," said Laura Gero, 55th Medical Operations Squadron family advocacy nurse. "Breast pumps can be very expensive, especially for our young airmen who are having families. A quality electric breast pump can cost upwards of $300. A commercial grade pump can be over $1000." For those who purchased a breast pump before the change, they may still be able to get their money back with proof of purchase. "Additionally, any Tricare user who has purchased a breast pump or other supplies, covered by the policy after receiving a prescription since December 19, 2014, can submit their receipts and copy of their prescription to Tricare, the policy states," Gero said. The pumps are primarily used by breastfeeding mothers who are separated from their infant longer than a few hours, but are also useful in other circumstances. "All breastfeeding mothers may find a breast pump helpful if they have to be separated from their baby--whatever the reason," Gero said. "Working mothers will need to pump every two to four hours when away from their babies. In some cases, breast pumps are used to help a mother increase or maintain an adequate milk supply. For premature babies, a breast pump may need to be a necessity. A good commercial grade duel electric breast pump can help a woman complete the pump process in less than 15 minutes." Breastfeeding is highly encouraged for those who are able. "Breastfeeding benefits the baby, the mom, the family, society and the mission," Gero said. "The American Academy of Pediatrics reaffirms its recommendation of exclusive breastfeeding for about six months, followed by continued breastfeeding as complementary foods are introduced, with continuation of breastfeeding for one year or longer as mutually desired by mother and infant." For those interested in breastfeeding and needing more information, there are several programs available. "There are many great lactation resources in the community," Gero said. "In addition to help from the Erhling Bergquist Clinic medical providers, the New Parent Support Program nurses are all Certified Lactation Counselors. They are available for home visits...whether you have Tricare Prime or Standard. They cover a large geographic distance of 40 miles from the Erhling Bergquist Clinic." They are also available for general parenting advice and can be reached at (402) 294-7886. "[You can also] stop by our offices, Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.," Gero said. "We are in the Erhling Bergquist Clinic on the second floor of the North tower, in the Mental Health Clinic." For additional questions about the policy change, contact United Healthcare Military and Veterans at (877) 988-9378 or visit www.uhcmilitarywest.com website. Also, on June 22 at 1:00 p.m. ET, TRICARE will host a Facebook Town Hall to discuss the new policy.