Access to Fertility Treatment and Care Act
Summary
The Access to Fertility Treatment and Care Act aims to mandate health insurance plans to provide coverage for fertility treatment if they already cover obstetrical services. This includes procedures like in vitro fertilization, artificial insemination, and genetic testing of embryos. The bill amends the Public Health Service Act, ERISA, and the Internal Revenue Code to enforce these coverage requirements.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the bill would expand access to fertility treatments for individuals with health insurance that covers obstetrical services. It also includes provisions to ensure that cost-sharing for fertility treatment does not exceed that of other medical services. The bill also extends these benefits to federal employees, veterans, and those covered by Medicaid and Medicare.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to fertility treatments for insured individuals.
- Reduced financial burden through mandated insurance coverage.
- Expanded coverage for federal employees, veterans, and Medicaid/Medicare recipients.
- Standardized coverage requirements across different health plans.
- Protection against discrimination based on seeking fertility treatment.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential increase in health insurance premiums for all policyholders.
- Increased demand for fertility services may strain existing resources.
- Possible challenges in defining and regulating the scope of 'fertility treatment'.
- Religious or moral objections from some insurers or individuals.
- Potential for increased government spending on federal programs.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the US Constitution is primarily based on the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8), which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce, including health insurance. The expansion of healthcare access could also be argued to align with the general welfare clause of the Preamble. However, potential challenges could arise under the Tenth Amendment, concerning states' rights, particularly regarding the mandate for state Medicaid plans.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).