Coverage of Preventive Services for Women under PPACA

For plan years beginning on or after August 1, 2012, new plans and non grandfathered plans must offer with no cost sharing, certain preventive care and screenings for women. Exemptions may be allowed for certain religious employers.

Interim final regulations were issued August 3, 2011 as well as an amendment to exempt religious employers from the requirement to cover contraceptive services. Comments are due on or before September 30, 2011.

Health Services and Resources Administration (HRSA) provides the following list of required preventive services:
·         Well-woman visits
·         Screening for gestational diabetes
·         Human papillomavirus testing
·         Counseling for sexually transmitted infections
·         Counseling and screening for human immune-deficiency virus
·         Contraceptive methods and counseling
·         Breastfeeding support, supplies and counseling
·         Screening and counseling for interpersonal and domestic violence