HB 5185
Increasing access to contraceptive drugs, devices, and procedures
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- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill aims to increase access to contraceptive drugs, devices, and procedures in West Virginia. It seeks to ensure that health insurance plans cover these services at parity with other prescription drugs and devices, eliminating cost-sharing barriers like deductibles and copays. The bill also clarifies definitions related to contraceptives and sterilization, and includes a religious employer exemption while requiring notification to enrollees about services not covered.
Key provisions
- Requires health insurance plans to cover prescription contraceptive drugs and devices at the same level as other prescription drugs.
- Prohibits cost-sharing (deductibles, copays) for contraceptive drugs and devices that exceed those for other covered medications.
- Ensures coverage for outpatient contraceptive services, including consultations and procedures.
- Establishes definitions for key terms such as ‘contraceptives,’ ‘covered person,’ and ‘health insurance plan.’
- Includes a religious employer exemption, allowing organizations meeting specific criteria to exclude contraceptive coverage while requiring notification to enrollees.
- Prohibits denial of coverage or enrollment based on contraceptive use.
- Prevents monetary incentives to discourage contraceptive use.
- Allows for a 12-month supply of contraceptives at one time, unless medically advised otherwise.
Who is affected
- Individuals seeking contraceptive care
- Health insurance companies
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