Bonamici, Moore, Wasserman Schultz Ask HHS to Clarify Breastfeeding Coverage

Press Release

Congresswomen Suzanne Bonamici, Gwen Moore, and Debbie Wasserman Schultz sent a letter to Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Sylvia Burwell asking for clarification regarding insurance coverage of breastfeeding services.

Recent reports find some insurance companies are not complying with the Affordable Care Act, which requires health insurance companies to provide full coverage for breastfeeding services and supplies.

"Breastfeeding is one of the most effective preventive health measures for mothers and children," Congresswoman Bonamici said. "The benefits to both the child and mother are well-documented, but without easy access to a breast pump or to breastfeeding consultation some mothers cannot continue to nurse. For working or low-income mothers the cost hurdle can be especially difficult. In this letter my colleagues and I urge Secretary Burwell to enforce the ACA so that no woman has to forgo breastfeeding because she cannot afford a breast pump or the counseling services."

"Thanks to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), more American mothers are able to secure improved health outcomes for themselves and their newborn children. For women who choose to breastfeed, this landmark legislation requires insurance companies to provide access to critical coverage of breastfeeding equipment, support, and counseling at no cost. Sadly, recent reports demonstrate a failure by some insurers to comply with ACA requirements. Needless to say, this is deeply troubling and simply unacceptable. We ask that the Department of Health and Human Services ensure that health plans are fully compliant with the ACA in regards to breastfeeding services so that insurance companies join us as partners in ensuring that our nation's families are afforded every chance to live happy, healthy lives," Congresswoman Gwen Moore said.

"As a mother who has nursed three children, I know the importance of breastfeeding as well as the challenges. All women deserve access to the services and support they need to breastfeed, if they decide to do so. By mandating comprehensive coverage for women's health needs including breastfeeding, the Affordable Care Act was a monumental step toward providing this access. I am proud to stand with my colleagues to encourage and support HHS in ensuring compliance with a coverage provision so significant to the health of women and babies," Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Shultz said.

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