Find an IBCLC Who Accepts Your Insurance
The Affordable Care Act requires most insurance plans to cover lactation support at no cost to you. Find an IBCLC near you who takes your plan.
Your Insurance Is Probably Required to Cover This
Under the Affordable Care Act, non-grandfathered health insurance plans must cover breastfeeding counseling and support as a preventive service — with no cost-sharing. That means no copay, no deductible, no out-of-pocket cost for covered visits. This applies during pregnancy and in the postpartum period.
Most employer health plans, marketplace plans, and Medicaid expansions are covered. The main exceptions are certain grandfathered plans (plans that haven't changed significantly since 2010) and some short-term health plans. If you're unsure, call the member services number on your insurance card and ask: "Do I have coverage for lactation counseling under the ACA?"
Insurance Plans Commonly Accepted by IBCLCs
Coverage varies by individual plan. Always confirm with your IBCLC and insurer before your visit.
Find an IBCLC Who Accepts Your Insurance
Use the filter below to search for IBCLCs who accept specific insurance plans. Many IBCLCs also work with patients who have out-of-network benefits — ask about superbills.
Search IBCLCs by InsuranceTricare Families
Active duty, retired military, and their families enrolled in Tricare have strong lactation coverage. Tricare covers IBCLC services both through military treatment facilities and private-sector IBCLCs who are Tricare-authorized. Filter by "Tricare" in the insurance search to find authorized providers.
You've already paid for this benefit
Your insurance is likely required to cover IBCLC visits at no cost. Use it.
Find an IBCLC Near MeInsurance Coverage for Lactation Consultants: FAQ
Does insurance cover lactation consultant visits?
Yes — for most Americans. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires non-grandfathered health insurance plans to cover breastfeeding counseling and support without cost-sharing (no copay, no deductible). This coverage applies during pregnancy and postpartum. The specific number of covered visits varies by plan, but "zero cost" coverage is the rule, not the exception.
Does Tricare cover an IBCLC?
Yes. Tricare covers lactation counseling services for military families, including IBCLC visits. Coverage is available both in-network through military treatment facilities and in the private sector through Tricare Select. Some IBCLCs are Tricare-authorized providers — check individual listings for Tricare acceptance.
Does Medicaid cover an IBCLC?
In most states, yes. Medicaid is required to cover preventive services including lactation support under the ACA's Medicaid expansion provisions. Coverage specifics vary by state — some states have excellent Medicaid lactation coverage, others are more limited. An IBCLC who accepts Medicaid will note this on their listing. Call your state Medicaid office if you're unsure about your specific plan.
How do I know if an IBCLC is in-network?
The easiest way is to call your insurance's member services line (the number on your card) and ask for IBCLCs in your area who are in-network. You can also search this directory and filter by insurance accepted, then confirm with your insurer before your appointment. Some IBCLCs are "out-of-network" but will provide you a superbill for reimbursement — often still significantly covered.
What if my IBCLC is out-of-network?
Many IBCLCs operate private practices and aren't contracted with any insurance. However, the ACA requires most plans to cover out-of-network lactation services at a reasonable rate or to pay the provider directly. An out-of-network IBCLC can often provide you a superbill (an itemized receipt) that you submit to your insurance for reimbursement. Call your insurance before the visit to understand your out-of-network benefit.