Bill > HB589

This bill amends the Georgia Medicaid plan to provide comprehensive fertility coverage beginning January 1, 2026, including fertility diagnostic care, treatment, and preservation services for individuals facing fertility challenges. The legislation defines key terms such as infertility (the inability to establish or carry a pregnancy after 12 months of unprotected intercourse), and establishes coverage for up to three complete egg retrievals with unlimited embryo transfers, following guidelines from the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. The bill mandates coverage without discrimination and specifically includes protection for individuals with medical conditions that might impair fertility, such as those undergoing treatments that could impact reproductive capabilities. The coverage extends to various services like genetic testing, counseling, laboratory assessments, and medication, and explicitly covers scenarios involving donor gametes or embryos. The bill also requires the Department of Community Health to submit a report by August 1, 2026, exploring potential methods for covering in-vitro fertilization and standard fertility preservation services, and may require submitting a Medicaid plan amendment or waiver to federal authorities. Importantly, the bill excludes coverage for experimental fertility procedures and non-medical costs related to donor gametes or surrogacy, while ensuring that Medicaid recipients can access at least three cycles of ovulation-enhancing medication treatment during their eligibility period.

Health and Social Services

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/70698