How Does Insurance Reimbursement Work?

How Does Insurance Reimbursement Work?

Dana Donofree
4 min read

How Does Insurance Reimbursement Work?

We often get asked about AnaOno bras and insurance coverage. AnaOno is out-of-network with many insurance companies and does not bill insurance directly. Depending on your individual insurance plan, you may be able to purchase an eligible product from an out-of-network provider and submit a claim for reimbursement, but reimbursement is not guaranteed.

We wanted to provide a brief step-by-step guide to help you understand your options if your insurance plan allows reimbursement for purchases from out-of-network providers. 

Before getting started, it's important to note that all insurance plans and benefits are different. The information below is for general guidance only and is not a guarantee of coverage or reimbursement. Because AnaOno is out-of-network with many insurance companies, we strongly recommend contacting your insurance provider before making a purchase to confirm whether your plan allows out-of-network purchases and what documentation and requirements apply.

What May be Covered?

Insurance coverage for mastectomy bras and breast forms varies by insurance provider and individual plan. Some plans may cover mastectomy bras billed under HCPCS code L8000, while others may have different requirements regarding eligible products, quantities, providers, or reimbursement.

Because coverage varies, we recommend contacting your insurance provider before purchasing to confirm:

  • Whether mastectomy bras are covered under your plan
  • Whether HCPCS code L8000 is covered

Again, these are Medicare's guidelines, and while these numbers and partial reimbursement apply to Medicare plans only, the rules are generally the same with private insurers. What may change between your private insurer and Medicare is the following:

  • The number of pocketed bras or camisoles you are allowed
  • The amount of money reimbursed for each product
  • How many bras or breast forms are covered
  • Whether you need a prescription or other medical documentation
  • Whether you must purchase from an in-network or approved provider
  • Whether an out-of-network purchase may be eligible for reimbursement

If your insurance plan allows reimbursement for eligible out-of-network purchases, ask your insurance provider which AnaOno products may qualify and what documentation you will need to submit.

AnaOno is out-of-network with many insurance companies and cannot guarantee that a product purchased directly through AnaOno.com will be eligible for reimbursement.

    How Much is Covered or Reimbursed?

    The amount your insurance plan may cover or reimburse depends on your specific insurance provider and plan. Your plan may determine a maximum allowable or reimbursable amount for an eligible product, and your out-of-pocket responsibility may vary.

    If you are considering purchasing directly from AnaOno and submitting a claim, ask your insurance provider about the reimbursement amount or fee schedule for HCPCS code L8000, if applicable to your plan.

    Your final out-of-pocket cost or reimbursement may depend on:

    • The amount your insurance plan allows or reimburses for the product
    • Whether the product is covered under your plan
    • Whether you have met your deductible
    • Any copayment or coinsurance requirements
    • Whether your plan covers out-of-network purchases
    • Whether AnaOno is considered an out-of-network provider under your plan

    Because AnaOno is out-of-network with many insurance companies, we cannot guarantee that your insurance provider will reimburse your purchase or reimburse the full purchase price.

    How Do I Submit a Reimbursement Claim?

    If your insurance plan allows you to purchase from an out-of-network provider and submit a claim, contact your insurance provider before purchasing to confirm their requirements and reimbursement process.

    Your insurance provider may require documentation such as:.

    • A prescription or other medical documentation, if required by your insurance plan
    • A diagnosis code, if required by your insurance provider
    • An itemized receipt or proof of purchase
    • The reimbursement or claim form required by your insurance provider
    • Any additional documentation requested by your insurance plan

    If your insurance plan requires a prescription, diagnosis code, or prior authorization, your physician's office may be able to help provide the necessary documentation. Requirements vary by insurance plan, so be sure to ask your insurance provider what is required before making a purchase.

    How Does the Reimbursement Process Work?

    If your insurance plan allows out-of-network reimbursement, the process and timeline will depend on your insurance provider. After you submit your claim and required documentation, processing times can vary. Contact your insurance provider to ask how long claims typically take to process and how you will be notified of the outcome.

    If you have questions about the status of your claim, contact your insurance provider directly.

    If your claim is approved, your insurance provider will determine the reimbursement amount based on the terms of your plan. Your reimbursement may be reduced by any applicable deductible, copayment, coinsurance, or other out-of-pocket responsibility. Your insurance provider will determine whether your claim is eligible and how much, if anything, will be reimbursed. 

    Insurance plan benefit periods and claim filing deadlines vary by plan. Some plans operate on a calendar year, while others may have different benefit periods. Your insurance provider may also impose a deadline for submitting reimbursement claims after a purchase. 

    Contact your insurance provider before purchasing and ask about your plan's benefit period, coverage limits, and deadline for submitting a claim.

    Dana Donofree
    Dana Donofree

    Founder and CEO of AnaOno. After a diagnosis of breast cancer in her late 20’s, Dana took her own lived experience and fashion design background and (re)designed intimates for those that have undergone breast surgery. Dana’s story has been published around the world in outlets like New York Times, BBC, Huffington Post, The Today Show, and more.