How to book a lactation consultation through insurance
More than 70 percent of new parents experience difficulties and challenges finding reliable support and information during breastfeeding. Working with a lactation consultant can help ease concerns and set you up for success.
Insurance-covered lactation support is available through The Lactation Network (TLN) and our network of International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs). “IBCLCs are healthcare professionals,” explains TLN IBCLC Chrisie Rosenthal. “They are considered the gold standard in lactation care.” TLN will connect you with an IBCLC that will help you set feeding goals, pick a pump that works for you, and overcome feeding challenges, such as latching, milk supply, and clogged milk ducts (to name a few).
We spoke with Rosenthal about how to get your own insurance-covered consultation with a lactation consultant (IBCLC) through TLN.
Does my insurance cover lactation consultations?
Usually, yes! The Affordable Care Act (ACA) mandates that health insurance plans cover breastfeeding support, counseling, and equipment for the duration of breastfeeding. Unfortunately, your lactation consultation coverage may vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have.
Some workplaces also offer their own healthcare solutions — like TLN’s Newborn Families program — to cover their employees’ postpartum care. Check with your employer about your lactation benefits, and if they come up short, ask about implementing a program like Newborn Families.
How to get your insurance-covered lactation consultation
1. Check your coverage and request a consultation
You can check your coverage by filling out our Request a Lactation Consultation form with your name, contact information, address, and some supplemental information, including your preferred type of visit (in-home, in-office, or telehealth), the urgency of your visit, and if you already have a lactation consultant (IBCLC) in mind.
Even if you’re not quite ready to meet with an IBCLC, completing this step will allow us to confirm your coverage with your insurance. That way, when you’re ready to schedule you can do so with confidence.
2. TLN confirms your insurance coverage
No need for you to do anything here! After you sign up for your consultation, we will review your information and confirm your coverage with your health insurance.
In the event that you’re not covered by TLN, Rosenthal recommends reaching out to a lactation consultant (IBCLC) directly. They may be able to see your family on a cash basis, provide a superbill to submit to your insurance for reimbursement, or be able to connect you to other lactation support resources in your community.
3. Get your consultation
Once your coverage is confirmed, a TLN IBCLC will contact you to schedule a consultation and evaluation. Rosenthal recommends meeting your IBCLC for a prenatal lactation consultation, before you start breastfeeding if possible, to set you up for success. During this initial appointment, your IBCLC will take a detailed account of your health history, discuss and set breastfeeding goals, and answer any questions or concerns you may have.
4. Follow-up appointments
We believe parents deserve ongoing, expert lactation care. That’s why TLN generally covers multiple lactation consultations for the duration of your breastfeeding journey. As your baby grows and new challenges or questions arise, you can reach out to your IBCLC for support.
“Even when breastfeeding is going smoothly, your IBCLC can offer valuable suggestions to make your breastfeeding journey easier and be an indispensable resource for when questions arise,” says Rosenthal. Your IBCLC is there for you every step of the way — from the prenatal period to weaning.
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We believe that lactation care is a critical part of healthcare — because breastfeeding is a right, not a privilege. TLN continues to work with insurance providers to expand lactation care coverage and bring lactation consultations to more parents. As the nation’s largest network of IBCLCs, we can provide the insurance-covered, expert care you deserve. If you’re unsure of how to check your coverage, are having trouble submitting your insurance to TLN, or have any other questions, let us know — we’re always here to help!
If you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed, request your insurance-covered lactation consultation today from an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant who will support you throughout your prenatal-to-weaning breastfeeding journey.
We’re here for you, every step of the way. We work with your insurance to provide in-home, in-office, or telehealth visits with an IBCLC.
