If you are a WIC participant and need a breast pump, you may be able to get one through the program. WIC provides breast pumps to eligible participants who are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. To get a breast pump through WIC, you will need to talk to your healthcare provider and get a prescription. Once you have a prescription, you can take it to a WIC-authorized vendor to get your breast pump. WIC will cover the cost of the breast pump and provide you with supplies and support.
WIC Program Eligibility and Requirements
The WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) program is a federal nutrition program that provides food and nutrition support to low-income pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, as well as to infants and children under the age of 5 who are at nutritional risk. To be eligible for WIC, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be a resident of the United States.
- Be a pregnant, postpartum, or breastfeeding woman.
- Be an infant or child under the age of 5.
- Meet the income eligibility requirements. The income eligibility requirements vary from state to state, but generally, you must be at or below 185% of the federal poverty level.
You can apply for WIC at your local health department or WIC clinic. You will need to provide proof of income, proof of identity, and proof of residency. You will also need to have a health screening.
If you are eligible for WIC, you will receive a variety of food and nutrition support, including:
- Healthy foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and dairy products.
- Infant formula and baby food.
- Breastfeeding support and education.
- Nutrition counseling.
WIC also provides breast pumps to eligible participants. Breast pumps are available in two types: manual and electric. Manual breast pumps are less expensive than electric breast pumps, but they require more effort to use. Electric breast pumps are more expensive, but they are easier to use and can pump more milk faster.
To get a breast pump from WIC, you must be a breastfeeding mother who is participating in the WIC program. You must also have a medical need for a breast pump. Medical reasons for needing a breast pump include:
- Returning to work or school.
- Having a baby who is premature or has a medical condition that makes breastfeeding difficult.
- Having multiple babies.
If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can get a breast pump from WIC by talking to your healthcare provider or WIC staff. They will help you determine which type of breast pump is right for you and will help you get the breast pump you need.
| Household Size | 185% of Federal Poverty Level |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,625 |
| 2 | $3,541 |
| 3 | $4,458 |
| 4 | $5,374 |
| 5 | $6,291 |
| 6 | $7,207 |
| 7 | $8,124 |
| 8 | $9,040 |
Who is Eligible for a WIC Breast Pump?
To be eligible for a breast pump through WIC, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be enrolled in the WIC program.
- Be breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed.
- Have a medical need for a breast pump, such as:
- Returning to work or school.
- Having a baby in the NICU.
- Having difficulty breastfeeding.
Covered Types of Breast Pumps
WIC covers two types of breast pumps:
- Manual breast pumps are operated by hand and are typically less expensive than electric breast pumps. They are a good option for occasional use or for travel.
- Electric breast pumps are powered by electricity and are more efficient and easier to use than manual breast pumps. They are a good option for frequent use or for pumping multiple times per day.
Which Type of Breast Pump Is Right for Me?
The type of breast pump that is best for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are not sure which type of breast pump to get, talk to your WIC nutritionist or healthcare provider.
How to Get a Breast Pump from WIC
To get a breast pump from WIC, you will need to:
- Contact your local WIC office to schedule an appointment.
- Bring your WIC ID card and proof of income to your appointment.
- Meet with a WIC nutritionist to discuss your needs and to get a prescription for a breast pump.
- Take the prescription to a participating pharmacy to get your breast pump.
Tips for Using Your Breast Pump
- Wash your hands before using your breast pump.
- Make sure all of the parts of your breast pump are clean.
- Pump for 15-20 minutes per session.
- Store your breast milk in the refrigerator or freezer.
Applying for a Breast Pump through Insurance
Applying for a breast pump through insurance can help you save money on this necessary breastfeeding tool. Here are the steps to follow:
- Check your insurance coverage: Contact your insurance provider to determine if your plan covers breast pumps and the specific terms of coverage, such as the number of pumps allowed per lifetime or per child.
- Get a prescription from your healthcare provider: Most insurance providers require a prescription from a healthcare professional, such as an OB-GYN, pediatrician, or lactation consultant, to authorize a breast pump. The prescription should indicate the medical need for the pump.
- Choose a breast pump: Research and select the pump that best meets your needs. Consider factors such as price, portability, and pumping style.
- Find a covered supplier: Contact your insurance provider for a list of covered suppliers. You can also check the website of your insurance provider or call the customer service number.
- Submit the necessary paperwork: Complete the insurance forms provided by the supplier and submit them along with the prescription from your healthcare provider.
- Wait for approval: Your insurance provider will review your request and determine if it is approved. This process may take several days or weeks.
- Receive your breast pump: Once approved, the supplier will ship the breast pump to you or you can pick it up from a designated location.
| Insurance Provider | Coverage Details | Application Process |
|---|---|---|
| Blue Cross Blue Shield | Covers breast pumps for mothers who have given birth within the past 12 months, medically necessity is required. | Requires a prescription and submission of the claim form. |
| UnitedHealthcare | Covers breast pumps for mothers who have given birth within the past 30 days, a doctor’s order is required. | Requires a prescription and submission of the claim form. |
| Cigna | Covers breast pumps for mothers who have given birth within the past 12 months, medical necessity is required. | Requires a prescription and submission of the claim form. |
Eligibility and Application
To qualify for a breast pump through WIC, pregnant or breastfeeding women must meet certain income and nutritional risk criteria. To apply, contact your local WIC office and complete an application that includes proof of income, pregnancy, or breastfeeding status, and a medical assessment.
Types of Breast Pumps Available
WIC provides electric and manual breast pumps. Electric pumps are more expensive but allow for hands-free pumping and multiple pumping sessions per day. Manual pumps are less expensive and can be used anywhere, but they require more effort.
Resources for WIC Breast Pump Assistance
- National WIC Association: 1-800-942-3678
- USDA Food and Nutrition Service: 1-800-352-3401
- Local WIC Offices: Contact your state or county health department
Additional Information
| Feature | Electric Breast Pump | Manual Breast Pump |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | More expensive | Less expensive |
| Convenience | Hands-free, multiple pumping sessions | Requires manual effort, single pumping session |
| Portability | Requires a power source | Can be used anywhere |