I am posting this on behalf of Karen McArthur, who does not have Internet
access. Please respond via the list serve or to my address
([log in to unmask]) and I will see that she receives it.

Karen writes:

I need information on third party reimbursement for lactation services. I
am a registered nurse and recently became certified through IBLCE. On
January 12, I am meeting with the director of a large HMO in my community
in northwestern Pennsylvania to discuss coverage for breastfeeding classes,
consults, and pump rentals. My goal is to start a breastfeeding clinic
affiliated with the hospital where I am employed. I have some research
articles to show the HMO director on how breastfeeding babies saves health
insurance organizations money, but despite phone calls to lactation
consultants in surrounding areas, I have yet to find insurance coverage for
anything but pumps (Medicaid) and, in a few cases, classes.

Could you please e-mail me with information on these issues from your area?
Are breastfeeding classes, consults, pump rentals or other services
covered? If so, what do you charge? What is the reimbursement rate? Do you
have codes for these services? Any ideas on how to approach besides cost
savings to HMOs?
Jeanne Bleil
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