Some states require coverage of fertility preservation services

Although infertility may be caused by risk-reducing surgery or cancer treatment, health insurers do not typically cover fertility preservation or related treatments. However, several states have passed fertility preservation coverage laws: 

California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Illinois

Maryland New Hampshire New Jersey New York Rhode Island

 

 

 

 

 

These state laws specify that insurers must cover certain fertility services for women and men who will experience “iatrogenic infertility,” meaning infertility caused directly or indirectly by surgery, chemotherapy, radiation or other medical treatment. Note that some states only cover fertility preservation (sperm or egg retrieval) while others cover additional services such as In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Deductibles, coinsurance and copays typically apply.

Religious employers have the option to request an exclusion if coverage conflicts with their beliefs and practices. Even in states where coverage is not required, some self-insured companies offer insurance coverage for fertility preservation. It is important to check with your insurer to find out if you have coverage, and if so, for what procedures.

If you do not have insurance coverage for fertility services, you should ask about fertility preservation discounts. Many clinics will provide significant cost reductions for patients who need fertility preservation procedures. In addition, some hospitals and adolescent & young adult (AYA) programs have charitable funds available to help offset sperm banking and other preservation costs.

There are also grants and discounts available through established financial assistance programs.