Discrimination Lawsuit Leads to Policy Changes and Reimbursement Fund
Aetna, a major health insurance provider, has agreed to settle a lawsuit alleging discrimination against LGBTQ+ customers seeking fertility treatments. The settlement includes changes to coverage policies and a fund to reimburse those who were previously denied coverage.
National Coverage for Artificial Insemination
Under the terms of the settlement, announced on Friday, Aetna will make coverage for artificial insemination standard for all customers nationwide and work to ensure equal access to more expensive in-vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures for LGBTQ+ patients.
This represents a significant shift in policy, as Aetna’s previous practices reportedly made it more difficult for same-sex couples to access fertility treatment compared to heterosexual couples.
Reimbursement Fund Established
The settlement also includes a $2 million fund to reimburse individuals who were covered under certain Aetna commercial plans in New York and were denied coverage for artificial insemination.
Aetna Committed to Fair Coverage
A spokesperson for Aetna’s parent company, CVS Health, stated that the company is “committed to providing quality care to all individuals regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.” The settlement still needs to be approved by a federal judge.
