This benefit covers the cost of tube or enteral feeding supplies for children who must receive at least 50% of their nutritional intake via tube feeding. They must require tube feeding for a minimum of 3 months. This benefit does not cover post-surgical or short-term needs. Eligible supplies are:
- Feeding pump and related supplies (IV pole, pump sets, backpack)
- Feeding bags, containers
- Feeding tubes, securement devices and connectors
- 60 cc syringes-without needles (for feeding and flushing only), catheters, adapters and tips
- Tapes & adhesive removers
- Non-medicated dressings & drain sponges
- Saline, sterile water
Note: This benefit covers the cost of supplies only, not feeding formula. The Department of Health’s Tube and Supplemental Feeding Program provides to children and youth with medical conditions that require specialized products to meet 50% or more of their energy and nutritional needs. Speak with your pediatrician or pediatric dietitian to learn more.
Who Qualifies?
This benefit is for children who:
Are malnourished because they cannot get adequate intake from food and/or oral nutritional supplements,
and/or
Cannot eat/drink safely due to dysphagia (obstruction, swallowing or aspiration issues) or impairment of the gastrointestinal tract.
Have your physician, nurse practitioner or registered dietitian complete the Therapeutic Nutrients Application Form which must clearly indicate which of the above conditions your child suffers from.