Improving access to breast pumps
If enacted, H1317 will mandate coverage for the cost of renting and using these multi-user breast pumps for eligible active and retired employees of the Commonwealth. This coverage is especially aimed at mothers whose infants are in intensive or special care nurseries, or who have conditions preventing direct breastfeeding. The bill requires that these breast pumps be made available within 24 hours of a mother’s hospital discharge, thus ensuring timely access to essential breast-feeding resources.
House Bill H1317, entitled 'An Act improving access to breast pumps', seeks to enhance the availability of multi-user breast pumps for mothers in specific situations, particularly those whose infants are receiving specialized care. The bill defines a multi-user breast pump and stipulates the requirements for these devices, ensuring they are safe, durable, and efficient for multiple users. The intent is to support new mothers, especially those whose children face health challenges, by providing essential equipment to promote breastfeeding and enhance maternal-infant bonding.
While the overarching goal is to facilitate breastfeeding among new mothers and improve accessibility to necessary resources, there may be concerns about the implications for healthcare providers and insurers on coverage parameters. The support for lactation consultants, as outlined in the bill, might prompt discussions about the assignments of funding priorities within the healthcare system and the potential burdens on Medicaid and other insurers to adapt to these new standards.