Sanders Demands Probe into High Birth Control Prices

TL/DR –

Despite the Affordable Care Act’s requirement for health plans to provide free birth control, women are still being charged for contraception, according to Senator Bernie Sanders. Sanders has written to the Government Accountability Office requesting an investigation into why health plans are defying the law. A 2022 report found 16% of privately insured contraceptive users were paying out of pocket, and Sanders highlighted a recent Vermont investigation where insurers incorrectly charged residents over $1.5 million for contraception.

Investigation into Birth Control Charges Despite Federal Mandate

Despite federal law mandating that contraception should be free, women continue to be charged. The Senate health committee chair is pushing for a government investigation into the issue. Under the Affordable Care Act, health plans are mandated to provide birth control as a preventive service. However, health plans continue to violate this law, leading to patients being charged, according to Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.).

Challenges to Contraception Access

Despite attempts by Democrats to guarantee contraception access, challenges continue, particularly in the face of opposition from far-right conservatives who inaccurately characterize birth control methods as abortion. Contraception access has also faced state-level funding issues, leading to “death by 1,000 cuts,” according to Rachel Fey, vice president of policy and strategic partnerships at Power to Decide.

Persistent Denial of Contraceptive Coverage

Health insurers persistently deny their members the right to no-cost contraceptives, with brand-name contraceptives being particularly targeted despite the necessity for some women to use them. A recent investigation found that residents of Vermont were wrongly charged over $1.5 million for contraception.

Continued Out-of-Pocket Expenses

A significant 16% of privately insured contraceptive users were still paying out-of-pocket in 2022. The policy’s implementation has been complicated due to the variety of contraceptive methods available. While health plans are required to cover at least one type of contraception in every category, the sheer number of available oral contraceptive pills presents a challenge.

Efforts to Improve Contraceptive Access

The Biden administration has taken steps to improve access to contraception, including the Health and Human Services Secretary instructing health insurers of their obligation to provide no-cost contraceptives. However, Fey argues that further efforts are needed, including simplifying the process for reporting denials of contraception access.

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