CMS Establishes New Billing Code for Breast Pump Replacement Valves Following Cimilre’s Advocacy
BOSTON – Symmetrical Health, LLC, doing business as Cimilre Breast Pumps, announced today that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has established a new HCPCS Level II code A4288, “Valve for breast pump, replacement.” This decision follows a formal request submitted by Cimilre, spearheaded by Jacqui Penda, CLC, to recognize replacement valves as essential breast pump components.
“This change ensures more parents will have access to the supplies they need to continue breastfeeding with confidence,” said Jacqui Penda, CLC at Cimilre.
Breast pump valves are critical to the performance and efficiency of personal breast pumps. They attach to the underside of the breast shield, maintaining suction and facilitating milk flow into the collection container. Manufacturers recommend replacing valves every 1–3 months, as worn valves compromise suction and efficiency, potentially impacting milk supply.
Previously, replacement valves could only be billed under generic codes, creating barriers for coverage and leading many mothers to delay replacing them due to out-of-pocket costs. With this new HCPCS code, replacement valves are now clearly defined, allowing providers to more accurately bill for and supply essential equipment to breastfeeding families.
“This decision by CMS is a meaningful win for mothers and families,” said Jacqui Penda, CLC, of Symmetrical Health dba Cimilre Breast Pumps. “Valves are small but absolutely essential to the performance of a breast pump, and without them, breastfeeding outcomes can be jeopardized. By establishing a dedicated code, CMS has acknowledged the importance of proper pump maintenance and helped remove a barrier that too often discouraged families from replacing worn valves. This change ensures more parents will have access to the supplies they need to continue breastfeeding with confidence.”
This step brings replacement valves in line with other recognized breast pump parts such as bottle sets, breast shields, tubing, caps, and locking rings—reinforcing their importance to breastfeeding success.
About Cimilre Breast Pumps
Cimilre is dedicated to supporting parents on their breastfeeding journey by providing innovative breast pumps and accessories designed with comfort, performance, and accessibility in mind. With a focus on advancing maternal health through technology and advocacy, Cimilre continues to champion policies that make breastfeeding equipment more affordable and widely available.
