Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB5445

Caption

Closing the Contraception Coverage Gap Act

Impact

The implementation of SB5445 is expected to have a transformative effect on healthcare access for Medicare beneficiaries by eliminating cost barriers to obtaining contraceptive services. By including a broad definition of contraceptive items and services, which encompasses not only drugs but also ancillary clinical services such as consultations and follow-ups, the bill acknowledges the need for comprehensive reproductive health care. Advocates argue that this could significantly improve health outcomes for older women and women living with disabilities, who may face distinct challenges in accessing reproductive health care under existing policies.

Summary

SB5445, known as the 'Closing the Contraception Coverage Gap Act,' aims to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to ensure coverage of contraceptive items and services under the Medicare program. The bill mandates that these contraceptive services be provided at no cost-sharing to individuals enrolled in Medicare, with an effective date set for January 1, 2026. This move is significant as it represents a shift towards making reproductive health services more accessible to seniors and those with disabilities who are eligible for Medicare coverage.

Contention

While supporters hail the bill as a critical step in addressing healthcare disparities and enhancing women's health services, there may be points of contention regarding the potential implications on federal funding and state-level healthcare regulations. Opponents might raise concerns about the financial sustainability of extending such coverage, questioning the associated costs to the Medicare program and how it fits into the broader context of healthcare financing. As the bill is considered, stakeholders will likely debate the balance between providing necessary health services and managing fiscal responsibilities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HB9807

Strengthening Access to Contraceptive Care Act

US HB999

Right to Contraception Act

US SB339

Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act

US HB842

Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act

US HB10291

To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide coverage for certain fall prevention items under the Medicare program.

US HB10047

Closing the Substance Use Care Gap Act of 2024

US SB755

Finn Sawyer Access to Cancer Testing Act This bill provides for coverage of certain cancer diagnostic and laboratory tests under Medicare, Medicaid, and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Specifically, the bill provides for coverage of microarray analysis, DNA and RNA sequencing, whole-exome sequencing, and other next-generation sequencing for individuals diagnosed with cancer. Additionally, the Department of Health and Human Services must establish an education and awareness program for physicians and the public about genomic testing and the role of genetic counselors.

US HB9865

Access to Contraception for Servicemembers and Dependents Act of 2024

US HB4507

Transparency in Coverage Act

US HB1667

Acupuncture for Our Seniors Act of 2025This bill provides for Medicare coverage of acupuncturist services, including those provided by a physician (as authorized under state law).

Similar Bills

US HB9807

Strengthening Access to Contraceptive Care Act

US HB999

Right to Contraception Act

US HB1644

Copay Fairness for Veterans ActThis bill eliminates veterans' copayments for medication, hospital care, and medical services related to preventive health services provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs.The bill expands the definition of preventive health services to include (1) evidence-based items or services that have an A or B rating in the recommendations of the United States Preventive Services Task Force; (2) immunizations that have a recommendation from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention with respect to the individual involved; and (3) with respect to services for women, the preventive care, screenings, and contraceptives provided for in the Health Resources and Services Administration Preventive Services Guidelines in effect as of December 30, 2022, and any contraceptive approved, granted, or cleared by the Food and Drug Administration, any related contraceptive care, and any related services.

US SB4223

Access to Birth Control Act

US SB4447

Allowing Greater Access to Safe and Effective Contraception Act

US HB9094

ACE Veterans Act Access to Contraception Expansion for Veterans Act

US HB8659

Allowing Greater Access to Safe and Effective Contraception Act

US SR725

A resolution affirming the legal status of contraception following the Supreme Court's decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, 597 U.S. 215 (2022).