I remember that we had some discussion some time ago regarding hospital charges.
Pump kits are no different than any other hospital charge. The price includes
many things besides the article itself--instruction, monitoring, care, etc.
Also remember that the charge is not always what it seems. There are negotiated
rates for each insurance configuration.
A hospital will have a charge formula for acute care items that is 3 to 4 times
hospital cost. The charge formula for items for outpatients in the lactation
center is not the same as for inpatient items on the acute care floor. Keep in
mind that part of this charge is probably paying your salary!
Pardee Hinson, MPH, IBCLC
Mercy Lactation Support Center