Infertility Insurance Coverage – What’s covered Where?

Health Articles | July 24, 2007

Before beginning any discussion about insurance coverage, it’s important to explain the status of fertility benefits in the various States in the Union. Required coverage of infertility varies greatly from State to State. Not every employer is required to cover fertility treatments; this benefit is delineated per state.

States that do require some benefit level for infertility treatments are called “mandated to cover” states. The list is short, and exact mandates vary from State to State.

• Arkansas

• Hawaii

• Illinois

• Maryland

• Massachusetts

• Montana

• New Jersey

• New York

• Ohio

• Rhode Island

• West Virginia

Others, called “mandated to offer” states, require infertility benefits to be offered for additional purchase.

• California

• Connecticut

• Texas

Seems pretty clear cut, right? Of course! Everything that involves Government and Insurance is uncomplicated!?! To make it even more complicated, large, national corporations oftentimes offer the same benefits company-wide, resulting in exceptions to the State’s directive. Consult your Human Resources office to find out which State’s laws govern your companies policies. For example, you may live in a state that mandates coverage, but work for a company that is not required by the federal government to meet the State’s benefit mandate, find out which State’s mandate they must follow. On the other hand, if you live in a state that does not require fertility coverage; you may still be covered through your employer. Speak with your HR department and find out exactly what rules your company follows.

In addition to these complications, many times your healthcare plan may cover some parts of your treatment even if you work in a state that does not mandate coverage. It is extremely important, therefore, that you contact your company’s Human Resources department and your healthcare plan provider to discuss in detail your benefits. Don’t delay speaking with your HR Dept. start getting educated about your options today.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mindy Berkson has over a decade of experience in the infertility field. In addition to her personal battle with secondary infertility, Mindy has worked in several different capacities at both physicians' offices and egg donor and surrogacy agencies. Mindy received her B.S. in Economics from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. As an IVF Coordinator, Mindy guided hundreds of intended parents globally through the stressful physical and financial demands of the infertility process as well as provide professional and compassionate assistance in dealing with the emotional barriers involved with third party reproduction. Mindy’s vast resources and strategic alliances enable her to be a valuable resource and provide an insider's approach to infertility. With a deep commitment to helping others, and a passion and knowledge of the fertility process, Mindy founded Lotus Blossom Consulting. Mindy can be reached at mindy@lotusblossomconsulting.com or toll free at 877-881-2685.