Access Health CT, Connecticut's ACA exchange, is expressing objection to the Trump administration's proposed changes to billing for abortion coverage, according to The Connecticut Mirror.
Five things to know:
1. The proposed changes would apply to health plans in ACA exchanges.
2. Under the proposed changes, insurers would be required to send patients a separate bill if they purchase insurance that covers abortion, according to the report.
3. The $1 cost of abortion coverage, as determined by insurers, has shown up on premium bills, The Connecticut Mirror reported. However, the proposed changes require separate billing for that $1 cost.
4. CMS says the proposed changes will help ensure that people who receive federal subsidies to pay for coverage purchased in ACA exchanges are complying with the Hyde Amendment, according to the report. The Hyde Amendment is a legislative provision that prohibits the use of federal funds to pay for abortion, except in cases of rape, incest, or if the woman's life is in danger.
5. Access Health CT says separate billing for abortion services would burden insurers since it would require separate billing for about 100,000 Connecticut individuals and families who purchase plans through the state exchange, according to the report. Connecticut's ACA exchange said it would also submit public comment protesting the proposed regulations. A public comment period is required before the federal government issues a final rule.
Access The Connecticut Mirror's full report here.
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