Carolyn

 - I run a pump rental station in Boston and recently started getting
Medicaid reimbursement. I registered as a supplier of DME. I did not need
any kind of prequalification other than business licence (or state
equivalent) and copy of tax forms (this in contrast to many picky
requirements - such as Medicare # [how many Medicare people need breast
pumps?] etc. for various health insurance cos.) I only bill for pumps, not
lactation services.
I do need to get prior approval for payment. This usually means a
prescription and my explanation of the medical need for the pump (usually
for a hospitalized premie with Mom at home). The need for prequalification
means many big pharmacies will not do Medicaid - or they demand the payment
in full from client in advance and tell them they'll be reimbursed if
they're approved!!!! Not many Medicaid women can go that route...
Since I know when I'm likely to get reimbursal, I just give the pump and
hope for approval (all been approved so far..)
My area rep. tells me New Hampshire covers pumps for Moms who return to
work. In alliance with the local WIC office I am about to claim for a pump
for a Mom whose baby is allergic to formula. She is returning to work, so
needs pump. We'll see what happens...
Having a Medicaid number also means you can provide pumps to Healthy Start
Moms. I am just about to begin that too (I live in a low income area!)