That is why Susan had to pay for them out-of-pocket. Susan asked the hospital to pay for contraceptives, because it covered other prescription drugs and preventative care. When the hospital refused, she got in touch with the National Women’s Law Center, Washington, D.C. NWLC attorneys immediately informed the hospital administration that these actions were illegal under Federal and state laws against sex discrimination in employment. As a result Lenox Hill authorities gave up.
Apart from the Federal and state laws against sex discrimination in the workplace, 20 other states have introduced legislation forcing insurance companies to pay for prescription contraceptives if they do so with other prescription drugs. NWLC has issued the guide, “Contraceptive Equity Laws in Your State: Know Your Rights-Use Your Rights” to make it easier for women to use these insurance laws to get coverage for prescription contraceptives.
The guide provides a summary of the crucial clauses concerning the contraceptive equity laws, procedures for filing a complaint if your insurance company does not cover Birth control, contact information for state insurance departments, and complaint forms. “Access to contraception is a central part of women’s health care. It’s absolutely essential for women to know that there are new laws to help them get insurance coverage for prescription contraceptives-and that we are here to help them understand and exercise their rights,” claims Judith C. Applebaum, NWLC vice president and legal director.