New Jersey has made a significant move to enhance fertility insurance coverage with a new law that is set to benefit many families.
What’s Changed with Insurance Coverage in the Garden State?
The new legislation has slashed the waiting time for in vitro fertilization (IVF) coverage from two years to just one year for women under 35. For those over 35, the wait has been cut down from one year to a mere six months. Additionally, this law mandates that the State Health Benefits Program and the School Employees Health Benefit Plan provide this broader insurance coverage. Importantly, it now also includes provisions for single women and those in same-sex relationships.
These updates align with the American Society for Reproductive Medicine’s definition of infertility. Previously, New Jersey’s regulations required couples to try for two years before qualifying for coverage. This extra waiting time placed unnecessary emotional and financial stress on those wishing to grow their families. “Getting timely help to diagnose and treat infertility gives patients the best chance to succeed,” says Dr. Emily Carter, a reproductive endocrinologist.
State Comparisons and Coverage Statistics
It’s worth noting that New Jersey is one of only 15 states that require some level of insurance coverage for infertility. States like Maryland, New York, Ohio, and West Virginia also have similar mandates. At our center, around 90 percent of patients with insurance have coverage for infertility testing, which is crucial for getting a diagnosis. With the expanded coverage, RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association estimates that an additional 400,000 individuals could benefit.
Options for Those Without Insurance
But what about those without insurance? The cost of fertility treatments can be a barrier, which is why we offer various financial programs to make things more manageable. Our Shared Risk 100% Refund Program provides up to six rounds of IVF for a single fee, including all frozen embryo transfers. If a patient does not take home a baby or decides to stop treatment, they receive a full refund (some exclusions apply).
Getting Started on Your Journey
For anyone considering starting their journey with diagnostic testing and treatment, we have numerous locations to choose from. If you’re interested, you can check out more about our services and options for home insemination. If you’re looking for information on pregnancy, this is an excellent resource. And don’t forget to read more about our fertility support here.
Conclusion
In summary, New Jersey’s expanded insurance coverage for infertility treatments is a game-changer for many families. By reducing waiting times and including more individuals, the legislation alleviates some of the burdens associated with infertility. With financial options available, more people can access the help they need to fulfill their dreams of parenthood.