A bill for an act creating a health equity program and fund, and providing an appropriation.
The implementation of the health equity program is expected to fill gaps in coverage for necessary treatments related to menstruation and related health conditions, ensuring that individuals who are underinsured or not insured can access critical healthcare services. The program will be financed through a new health equity program fund, which will require appropriations from the general assembly and can also receive federal or private funds. Notably, funds allocated to the program are not subject to reversion at the end of the fiscal year, which ensures that the resources remain available for ongoing support.
Senate File 65 (SF65) establishes a health equity program in Iowa aimed at improving menstrual and post-menstrual health. The bill mandates the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to create a program that reimburses costs related to healthcare services and treatments for menstrual and post-menstrual health conditions that are not covered by insurance. Under the new program, covered services include hormone treatments, urinary tract treatments, and other relevant medical interventions, all of which must comply with established medical practices or FDA regulations.
One of the contentious points around SF65 may stem from discussions about the limits of government involvement in health care decisions and the potential for expanding existing state welfare programs. Some stakeholders may argue that by introducing a new layer of reimbursement under public funding, this could set a precedent for further government involvement in personal health choices. Additionally, establishing program administrative guidelines requires careful consideration by HHS as it could impact service providers and insurance patterns in the state.