Review of publicly available state reimbursement policies for removal and reinsertion of Long-Acting Reversible Contraception

Abstract

AbstractWe examined reimbursement policies for the removal and reinsertion of long-acting reversible contraception (LARC). We conducted a standardized, web-based review of publicly available state policies for language on reimbursement of LARC removal and reinsertion. We also summarized policy language on barriers to reimbursement for LARC removal and reinsertion. Twenty-six (52%) of the 50 states had publicly available policies that addressed reimbursement for LARC removal. Of these, 14 (28%) included language on reimbursement for LARC reinsertion. Eleven states included language on barriers for reimbursement for removal and/or reinsertion: five state policies included language with other requirements for removal only, three policies included language with additional requirements for reinsertion only, and three included language with additional requirements for both. Three state policies specified no barriers be placed on reimbursement for removal and one specified no barriers be placed on reimbursement for reinsertion. Half of the states in the U.S. do not have publicly available policies on reimbursement for the removal and reinsertion of LARC devices. Inclusion of unrestricted access to these services is important for reproductive autonomy.