
If you're struggling to conceive, you're not alone. In California, some insurance companies cover IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) and fertility benefits.
Anthem Blue Cross, for example, offers fertility benefits as part of their insurance plans. They cover IVF procedures, including egg freezing and sperm freezing.
Aetna, another major insurance provider, also covers IVF procedures, including IVF with donor eggs or sperm. Their plans vary by employer group.
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What IVF is Covered
IVF is covered by large-group health plans in California. This is a result of a new law signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, which requires these plans to provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of infertility.
The law does not apply to people who get their health coverage through religious employers. This means that individuals in these situations may still have to pay out of pocket for IVF.
The average out-of-pocket cost for IVF in California is $24,000. This is a significant expense that many people may not be able to afford without insurance coverage.
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Understanding Fertility Benefits
Fertility benefits vary widely among insurance providers. Major insurance companies like Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, United Healthcare, and Tricare offer a range of fertility benefits.
Some employers purchase these features, making them available to their employees. However, this is not a guarantee and can change year to year.
There are different levels of fertility benefits, and most insurance plans fall into one of these categories. Fertility insurance benefits exist at different levels, with the most common being diagnostic testing only.
This type of benefit covers procedures necessary to diagnose the causes of infertility, such as sonograms, HSG, hormone levels, and semen analysis. It also covers diagnostic surgeries like hysteroscopy and laparoscopy.
Diagnostic testing and limited treatment is another common level of benefit. It includes diagnostic testing and treatment limited to ovulation induction and/or artificial insemination. Some drug benefits may include clomiphene and injectable medications.
The most generous policy covers all treatments, including IVF treatment and injectable medications. However, there is often a limit on the amount covered or the number of IVF attempts allowed.
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Sources
- https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2024/10/01/california-insurance-companies-ivf-treatment-law/75464610007/
- https://www.sequoia.com/2024/10/california-mandates-infertility-ivf-coverage/
- https://www.ktvu.com/news/new-signed-bill-requires-insurance-companies-cover-ivf-california
- https://www.ivfmd.net/resources/financing/insurance-options/
- https://insurify.com/health-insurance/news/more-insurers-must-cover-ivf-under-new-ca-bill/
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