Mayes introduces bill to cover fertility preservation services, assistive reproduce health technologies
Rep. La'Tasha D. Mayes June 22, 2023 | 3:44 PM
HARRISBURG, June 22 – State Rep. La’Tasha D. Mayes, D-Allegheny, introduced the Preserving Fertility for Patients Act (H.B. 1493), to require insurance companies to provide fertility benefits.
The Preserving Fertility for Patients Act would require insurance providers to cover fertility preservation services and assistive reproductive health technologies necessary because of medically induced infertility. It would also ensure that patients requiring treatment that may render them infertile are not burdened with the financial costs of fertility preservation services.
“While there are now advancements that allow individuals to act proactively through sperm, egg and embryo banking and other emerging treatments, such advancements are only available to those who can afford it,” Mayes said. “Intensive treatments for diseases such as cancer, sickle cell disease, lupus and some kidney conditions can cause long-term side effects that can permanently damage patients’ reproductive systems. Without insurance coverage, many families cannot afford such fertility services, especially if they face other medical debts.”
Extracting and freezing embryos, eggs or sperm can cost up to $15,000 with storage costs ranging from $150 to $600, making such services inaccessible to those who cannot afford them, she noted.
“To ensure health care is equitable, I introduced the Preserving Fertility for Patients Act to require insurance providers to pay for fertility preservation services and assistive reproductive health services, which will enhance access for all Pennsylvanians,” Mayes said.
The Preserving Fertility for Patients Act now awaits consideration in the House Health Committee.