ACA Health Insurance: Understanding Birth Control Coverage

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires health insurance plans to cover preventive care, including birth control. This means that most plans must provide at least one form of birth control at no cost to you. However, not all brands or types of birth control are covered by all plans. And some plans may require you to use an in-network pharmacy to get free birth control.

What are the different types of birth control covered by the ACA?

The ACA requires plans to cover at least one type of each of the following methods of birth control:

• Hormonal methods: These include birth control pills, patches, rings, and injections.
• Barrier methods: These include condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps.
• Intrauterine devices (IUDs): These are small devices that are inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy.
• Implant: This small rod is inserted into the arm and releases hormones to prevent pregnancy.
• Emergency contraception: This is a pill that can be taken after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy.

How do I know if my plan covers birth control?

You can check your plan’s Summary of Benefits and Coverage (SBC) to see what types of birth control are covered. The SBC is a document that explains your plan’s benefits and costs. You can also call your insurance company’s customer service number to ask about birth control coverage.

What if my plan doesn’t cover the birth control I want?

If your plan doesn’t cover the birth control you want, you may be able to get it at a reduced cost through a patient assistance program. Patient assistance programs are offered by drug manufacturers to help people who can’t afford their medications. You can find more information about patient assistance programs on the websites of drug manufacturers.

Where can I get free or low-cost birth control?

There are a number of places where you can get free or low-cost birth control, including:

• Health centers: Health centers are community-based clinics that provide a range of health care services, including birth control.
• Planned Parenthood: Planned Parenthood is a non-profit organization that provides reproductive health care services, including birth control.
• Local health departments: Local health departments often offer free or low-cost birth control services.
• Online pharmacies: Online pharmacies like GoodRx and Blink Health offer discounts on birth control and other medications.

Seek Professional Help

If you have any questions about birth control coverage under the ACA, you should contact a licensed insurance agent. They can help you understand your plan’s benefits and find the best birth control option for you.