OR: Insurance must cover birth control

[flashl]

Bill passed by Legislature applies to prescription drug plans in state

PORTLAND -- It was a long time getting here, but as of Tuesday, health insurance plans that cover prescription drugs in Oregon must cover birth control.

Nancy Bennett, a spokeswoman for Planned Parenthood of the Columbia/Willamette, said her organization has fought for it since 1993.

"We were pushing for it because we believe women should have access to birth control. It's just basic health care for women," Bennett said. "Women are paying way more out of pocket for their health care than they should be."

Bennett said about half of states have similar requirements.

The law could affect about 1.4 million Oregonians covered by private insurance. Public employees and poor people under the Oregon Health Plan already are covered.

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[sandnsea]

1. And EC in the ER for rape victims

and pharmacists have to make EC available too. Our legislature did some excellent work last year.

[Triana]

3. WOW! I hope a LOT of other states follow suit! (n/t)

[Triana]

2. EXCELLENT! Good news! (n/t)

[pleah]

4. It should have been covered years ago. I can't believe it has taken this long.

[shenmue]

5. I think this is good.

:)

[Donald Ian Rankin]

6. This should be the business of the state, not insurance companies.

This is arguably a step in te right direction, on balance, but it's irrational that it should be illegal to insure someone against some medical needs without also being compelled to insure them against others.

Like all other medical needs, contraception and abortion should be free at point of use and paid for out of general taxation. Society has a responsibility to provide healthcare, and it should not push that burden off onto private companies.