Millions of people with private health insurance may soon have access to a wider range of over-the-counter contraceptive methods at no cost, thanks to a new rule proposed by the White House. Currently, health insurers are required to cover prescribed contraception, including birth control pills and condoms with a doctor's prescription. However, the new rule aims to expand this coverage, allowing individuals to obtain condoms, birth control pills, and emergency contraceptives like the 'morning after' pill without a prescription and free of charge.
The proposal, announced by the Health and Human Services Secretary, Xavier Becerra, emphasizes the importance of empowering women to make their own healthcare decisions. The rule would enable individuals to access emergency contraceptives such as levonorgestrel, commonly known as 'Plan B,' without incurring costs. This pill is designed to prevent pregnancy when taken immediately after intercourse, with effectiveness diminishing after 72 hours.
In addition to emergency contraceptives, the new rule would require insurers to cover the once-a-day birth control pill, which was FDA-approved last year. This pill, priced at $20 for a one-month supply, aims to provide a more affordable and accessible option for women seeking contraception.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has praised the proposed rule, highlighting the financial barriers that copays pose for many women in accessing birth control. The rule builds upon federal mandates introduced with the Affordable Care Act, which mandated coverage of FDA-approved birth control as a preventative service.
While the proposal is under review by America's Health Insurance Plans, it is important to note that the rule would only impact individuals with private health insurance, not those covered under Medicaid. Medicaid coverage for contraception varies by state, with few states currently covering over-the-counter methods like Plan B or condoms.
