New Guidelines Allow for No Out-of-Pocket Costs to Women for Preventive Health Care

The US Department of Health and Human Services announced on August 1, 2011, that women will receive preventive health services at no additional cost. This historic new guideline is an effort to improve use of preventive services and to reduce health care costs related to preventable diseases and conditions.

The services to be covered include well-women visits; screening for gestational diabetes; human papillomavirus DNA testing for women 30 years and older; sexually transmitted infection counseling; HIV screening and counseling; FDA-approved contraceptive methods, including implantable devices, and counseling; breastfeeding support, supplies, and counseling; and domestic violence screening and counseling.¹

For religious employers, an exemption to opt out of the contraceptive coverage provision will be available.

New health plans must fully cover these services for policies beginning on or after August 1, 2012.

More Information

Affordable Care Act Rules on Expanding Access to Preventive Services for Women WHO:Integrating Prevention into Health Care

References:

Reference
1. US Department of Health & Human Services. Affordable care act ensures women receive preventive services at no additional cost. August 1, 2011.  Accessed August 12, 2011.