The White House has put forth a new rule that would allow individuals with private health insurance to obtain over-the-counter birth control methods, such as condoms, the “morning after” pill, and contraceptive pills, at no cost. As it currently stands, insurers are required to cover the costs of prescribed contraception, which includes birth control and condoms provided with a prescription. However, this proposed change would extend that coverage, allowing millions with private health insurance to obtain free contraceptives from local stores without the need for a prescription.
This initiative comes just before Election Day, and forms a key part of Vice President Harris’s presidential campaign, which promises to expand access to women’s health care. This follows the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision two years ago to overturn nationwide abortion rights. Harris aims to differentiate herself from her Republican opponent, Donald Trump, who appointed several of the justices involved in that ruling.
Jennifer Klein, the director of the White House Gender Policy Council, stated that the announcement reflects the administration’s strong commitment to defending access to reproductive health care and ensuring women’s freedom to make personal health decisions. She added that the administration is taking decisive action to expand contraceptive coverage for 52 million women of reproductive age with private health insurance.
The proposed rule would allow those with private insurance to access emergency contraceptives, such as levonorgestrel (commonly known as “Plan B”), without cost. Without a prescription, a pack of these pills can cost up to $50. Delaying the purchase of the medication to obtain a doctor’s prescription could reduce its effectiveness, as it’s most effective within 72 hours of intercourse.
The proposed rule would also mandate insurers to cover the cost of the once-a-day Opill, a new over-the-counter contraceptive pill approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration last year. A one-month supply of these pills costs $20.
The Affordable Care Act first introduced federal mandates for private health insurance to cover contraceptive care. This required insurance plans to cover the cost of FDA-approved birth control prescribed by a doctor for preventive purposes.
The Departments of Health and Human Services, Labor, and the Treasury are proposing the rule, which, if finalized, would come into effect in 2025, according to Reuters. However, it would not affect individuals on Medicaid, as states can largely determine their own rules regarding Medicaid coverage for contraception. Many states do not cover over-the-counter methods like Plan B or condoms.
