TRICARE’s breast pump policy updates effective July 1 Published June 17, 2015 By TRICARE WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- TRICARE's breast pump policy was recently updated to include coverage of breast pumps and supplies, and breastfeeding counseling. These supplies and services will be retroactively covered as of Dec. 19. To get full details about this important benefit change, as well as an opportunity to ask questions, TRICARE will host a Facebook town hall on June 22, 1:00 p.m. EDT. Bobbie Matthews, the Defense Health Agency's subject matter expert with the Medical Benefits and Reimbursement Office, will be online and available to answer questions directly. According to officials, breastfeeding has long been a recommended healthy choice. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, for most children, and continued breastfeeding for at least the first year as foods are introduced. TRICARE's breastfeeding support benefit is considered to be preventive care. Therefore, the equipment, supplies, and services covered under this benefit are exempt from cost shares and copays. The coverage is for all pregnant TRICARE beneficiaries, as well as beneficiaries who legally adopt and intend to personally breastfeed. To be covered, the breast pump and supplies must be obtained from a TRICARE authorized provider, supplier or vendor. For manual or standard electric breast pumps and associated supplies (includes breast pump kits), this includes any civilian retail store or pharmacy. If payment is out of pocket for a covered breast pump, a completed claim form with a copy of the prescription for the breast pump, along with a receipt for reimbursement must be submitted.