The PennZone

~ Harrisburg, PA - Governor Josh Shapiro is urging health insurers in Pennsylvania to make contraception more accessible and affordable without unnecessary hurdles. This call to action comes after the recent launch of the first ever FDA approved over-the-counter (OTC) daily birth control pill, Opill.

Governor Shapiro has always been a strong advocate for women's access to reproductive healthcare and is now calling on other insurers to follow the lead of major companies CVS Health Plans and Geisinger Health Plans. These two insurers have announced that they will cover OTC contraception with or without a prescription at no cost.

"I am glad to see that CVS Health Plans are joining Geisinger Health Plans to cover Opill without a prescription - and more insurers should follow suit," said Governor Shapiro. "I've always fought to protect and defend access to reproductive healthcare, and my Administration will continue to hold insurers accountable and ensure that women have the personal freedom to make choices over their own bodies."

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In an effort to encourage other insurers in Pennsylvania to adopt this best practice, Governor Shapiro's Administration has issued guidance for health insurers to cover OTC birth control with or without a prescription. The Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID) is also asking insurers who choose not to cover OTC contraception options to provide additional information on why they are not complying with federal law and regulations.

"We are glad to see insurers continue to take steps towards a best practice that ensures Pennsylvanians are empowered with choices in their reproductive healthcare," said Pennsylvania Insurance Commissioner Michael Humphreys. "The Shapiro Administration is committed to supporting women's freedom to make their own healthcare decisions and the right to access the full scope of reproductive health care."

Not only does insurance coverage of OTC contraception provide easier access for women, but it can also save them nearly $250 a year. The FDA recently approved Opill (norgestrel) for nonprescription use, making it available for purchase at drug stores, convenience stores, grocery stores, and online without a prescription. This means that individuals will no longer need to see a healthcare provider before obtaining this contraceptive medication.

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Opill has been classified as a progestin-only pill, which is considered a safer option for individuals with certain medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. According to the FDA, when taken correctly, Opill is expected to be the most effective non-prescription contraception method available. This could potentially help reduce the number of unintended pregnancies in Pennsylvania, which currently accounts for almost half of the over six million pregnancies annually in the U.S.

Pennsylvanians who have any insurance related questions or issues can file a complaint with PID's Consumer Services Bureau or by calling 1-877-881-6388.

Governor Shapiro's call for insurers to cover OTC contraception comes at a crucial time when access to reproductive healthcare is being threatened. With this new option available for women in Pennsylvania, it is hoped that other insurers will follow suit and make contraception more accessible and affordable for all.

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