Does Insurance Cover Plan B?

Plan B, commonly referred to as the morning-after pill, is a form of emergency contraception used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. Many women are concerned about the cost and availability of Plan B and wonder if their insurance covers it. In this article, we will answer the question, “does insurance cover Plan B?” and provide you with helpful information on this topic.

What is Plan B?

Plan B is a type of emergency contraception that contains levonorgestrel, a synthetic hormone that prevents pregnancy by stopping or delaying ovulation. It can be taken up to 72 hours after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure, but the sooner it is taken, the more effective it is. Plan B is not an abortion pill and will not terminate an existing pregnancy.

How does Plan B work?

Plan B works by preventing ovulation, which is the release of an egg from the ovary. If there is no egg released, then there is nothing for sperm to fertilize, and pregnancy cannot occur. Plan B may also thicken cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg if it has already been released.

Plan B is most effective when taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex or contraceptive failure, but it can be taken up to five days after. However, the effectiveness decreases the longer you wait to take it. Plan B is not 100% effective, but it can significantly reduce the risk of pregnancy.

Does Insurance Cover Plan B?

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires insurance companies to cover contraceptive methods, including emergency contraception like Plan B, without copays or deductibles. This means that most insurance plans cover Plan B at no cost to the patient. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.

If you have a grandfathered health plan, which is a plan that existed before March 2010 and has not been significantly changed, it may not cover emergency contraception like Plan B. You should check with your insurance company to see if your plan covers Plan B.

If you have Medicaid, Plan B is typically covered without cost-sharing. However, the availability and coverage may vary depending on your state’s Medicaid program. You should check with your state’s Medicaid office to see if Plan B is covered.

If you do not have insurance or your insurance does not cover Plan B, it can be purchased over-the-counter at most pharmacies for around $40-$50. There are also programs, such as the Title X Family Planning program, that provide free or low-cost contraception for those who qualify.

FAQs

Is Plan B covered by all insurance plans?

No, not all insurance plans cover emergency contraception like Plan B. If you have a grandfathered health plan or a plan that does not comply with the Affordable Care Act, it may not cover Plan B. You should check with your insurance company to see if your plan covers emergency contraception.

Do I need a prescription to get Plan B?

No, Plan B is available over-the-counter at most pharmacies. You do not need a prescription to purchase it. However, it is a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider about emergency contraception and other birth control options.

Can Plan B be used as a regular form of birth control?

No, Plan B is not intended to be used as a regular form of birth control. It is meant to be used as emergency contraception only. There are many other effective forms of birth control that can be used regularly to prevent unintended pregnancy.

Will Plan B protect me against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?

No, Plan B will not protect you against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If you are concerned about STIs, you should use condoms or other barrier methods in addition to hormonal contraception.

Conclusion

Plan B is a safe and effective emergency contraception that can prevent unintended pregnancy when taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. Most insurance plans cover Plan B without copays or deductibles, but there are some exceptions. If you do not have insurance, Plan B can be purchased over-the-counter at most pharmacies or obtained for free or low-cost through programs like the Title X Family Planning program. If you have any questions or concerns about emergency contraception or other forms of birth control, talk to your healthcare provider.