If enacted, SB172 would alter the landscape of health care coverage in California by mandating insurers to include fertility preservation provisions in their offerings. This amendment reflects a recognition of the potential risks associated with various medical treatments and aims to provide a safeguard for patients who might face fertility issues as a side effect. By requiring coverage for these services, the bill might facilitate greater access to reproductive health options for individuals subjected to medical treatments that could impair fertility.
Summary
Senate Bill 172, introduced by Senator Portantino, seeks to expand the definition of basic health care services within the Health and Safety Code to encompass standard fertility preservation services. These services are particularly significant for patients undergoing medically necessary treatments that may cause iatrogenic infertility, relating to infertility resulting from medical interventions. This bill mandates that individual or group health care policies that cover certain medical expenses include coverage for the evaluation and treatment of iatrogenic infertility, with the intent to safeguard reproductive options for those affected by such interventions.
Sentiment
In discussions surrounding the bill, the sentiment appears generally supportive among stakeholders advocating for enhanced reproductive rights and health care equality. Proponents argue that expanding insurance coverage to include fertility preservation services is a necessary step toward protecting the reproductive health of patients undergoing high-risk medical treatments. However, there may be concerns among insurance providers regarding the potential increase in costs associated with this expanded coverage, leading to a mixed sentiment in those sectors.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding SB172 could include the financial implications for health insurers and questions regarding equitable access to these services across different socio-economic groups. Critics may argue that mandating additional coverage could lead to increased premiums for all policyholders. Furthermore, there could be debates about the definitions of 'medically necessary' treatments that lead to iatrogenic infertility, raising concerns about the bill's implementation and enforcement.
Requires individual and group health insurance policies that provide pregnancy-related benefits to cover medically necessary expenses for diagnosis and treatment of infertility and standard fertility-preservation services.
Amends the current law on health insurance coverage for fertility diagnostic care, standard fertility preservation services, and fertility treatment and requires coverage for any medically necessary ovulation-enhancing drugs and medical services.
Mandates all insurance plans provide insurance coverage for diagnosing and treating infertility for women between the ages of 25 and 42 years including preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) in conjunction with in vitro fertilization (IVF).