Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H8182

Introduced
2/27/26  

Caption

Requires Medicaid to provide coverage for fertility medication, care, and services, for at least 3 cycles of fertility treatment, and intrauterine insemination.

Impact

The enactment of HB 8182 will significantly alter the landscape of reproductive health policies in Rhode Island. By ensuring that fertility services are included in Medicaid, the state aims to enhance access for those who otherwise might not afford such services. This bill is particularly notable for its focus on inclusivity, as it guarantees coverage without discrimination based on age, gender identity, or existing medical conditions, addressing long-standing barriers faced by various demographics in accessing fertility treatment. It is also positioned to assist in preserving reproductive health for individuals undergoing treatments that might affect fertility, such as certain medications or illnesses.

Summary

House Bill 8182 seeks to expand Medicaid coverage to include various fertility-related services for individuals facing infertility challenges. The bill mandates that starting January 1, 2027, the Rhode Island Medicaid program will provide coverage for fertility diagnostic care, standard fertility preservation services, and treatment for infertility. This includes medical services related to ovulation-enhancing medication, in addition to at least three treatment cycles and six intrauterine insemination cycles. Furthermore, the coverage extends to individuals with disabilities or those affected by medical conditions that might impair fertility, ensuring that all individuals have equitable access to these crucial healthcare services.

Contention

Despite its benefits, HB 8182 could spark debate regarding the allocation of state resources and the implications on existing Medicaid budgets. Some legislators and advocacy groups may raise concerns about the financial sustainability of expanding Medicaid services, particularly in an area as specialized as fertility treatment. Opponents might argue that prioritizing fertility treatment could divert resources from other essential health services, leading to discussions about the overall prioritization of healthcare funding. Nonetheless, supporters emphasize the importance of comprehensive reproductive healthcare, potentially framing fertility coverage as a fundamental issue of personal health rights.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5771

Mandates Medicaid coverage for fertility diagnostic care, standard fertility preservation services, and fertility treatment.

RI H5629

Amends the current law on health insurance coverage for fertility diagnostic care, standard fertility preservation services, and fertility treatment and requires coverage for any medically necessary ovulation-enhancing drugs and medical services.

RI S0691

Requires individual and group health insurance policies that provide pregnancy-related benefits to cover medically necessary expenses for diagnosis and treatment of infertility and standard fertility-preservation services.

RI S0103

Mandates all insurance contracts, plans or policies provide insurance coverage for the expense of diagnosing and treating infertility, for women between the ages of 25 and 42 years including preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) in conjunction with IVF.

RI H6254

Authorizes office of health and human services (EOHHS) to establish coverage for obesity treatments, including medication. Office of health and human services would seek a 1115(a) waiver.

RI H5624

Removes the age restriction for benefits coverage/requires, after 1/1/26, for policies issued or renewed include coverage for reimbursement for provider services at a rate equal to, or greater than, Medicaid establishments of EOHHS.

RI S0788

Removes the age restriction for benefits coverage/requires, after 1/1/26, for policies issued or renewed include coverage for reimbursement for provider services at a rate equal to, or greater than, Medicaid establishments of EOHHS.

RI S0684

Prohibits a policy of individual health insurance coverage from requiring prior authorization for prescriptions of generic medication.

RI H5772

Increases individual, group, and Medicaid insurance rates of reimbursement for ambulance and wheelchair van services to be equal to reimbursement rates provided by Medicare for the same medical services.

RI S0793

Increases individual, group, and Medicaid insurance rates of reimbursement for ambulance and wheelchair van services to be equal to reimbursement rates provided by Medicare for the same medical services.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.