BILL NUMBER: S6441A
SPONSOR: SKOUFIS
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the insurance law, in relation to requiring certain
health insurance policies include coverage services provided by pharma-
cists related to contraceptives
 
PURPOSE::
This legislation will increase the number of pharmacists offering
contraception pursuant to a non-patient specific standing order by
providing reimbursement for their services.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS::
Section 1: Provides that individual health insurance coverage shall
include reimbursement to a pharmacist who dispenses self-administered
hormonal contraceptives pursuant to section 6801 of the Education Law
and provides related services the same as any other health care provid-
er.
Section 2: Provides that group health insurance coverage shall include
reimbursement to a pharmacist who dispenses self-administered hormonal
contraceptives pursuant to section 6801 of the education law and
provides related services the same as any other health care provider.
Section 3: Provides that Article 43 health insurance coverage shall
include reimbursement to a pharmacist who dispenses self-administered
hormonal contraceptives pursuant to section 6801 of the education law
and provides related services the same as any other health care provid-
er.
Section 4: Sets Effective Date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
This bill would allow pharmacists to bill state-mandated private insur-
ance providers for their time spent dispensing contraception. This
measure is essential to increasing pharmacist participation in providing
contraceptive services while eliminating out-of-pocket costs for
patients.
As New York anticipates a 27% shortage of primary care physicians over
the next decade, the role of pharmacists in the healthcare system will
become increasingly vital. With the pharmacist workforce expected to
grow, these professionals will be well-positioned to help address the
state's healthcare needs. By ensuring reimbursement for their services,
this bill will alleviate pressure on primary care providers and improve
access to contraception, particularly in underserved and rural communi-
ties.
Pharmacists are among the most accessible healthcare professionals,
offering convenient locations, extended hours, and services without the
need for appointments. These advantages make them a crucial resource
compared to the limitations of traditional primary care settings. Howev-
er, without appropriate reimbursement for their time and expertise in
dispensing contraception, many pharmacists may be discouraged from fully
embracing this expanded role. By addressing this barrier, the bill will
enhance healthcare accessibility and strengthen contraceptive care
throughout New York.
 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY::
New Bill
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS::
None
 
EFFECTIVE DATE::
This act shall take effect immediately and shall apply to policies and
contracts issued, renewed, modified, altered or amended on and after
such date.

Statutes affected:
S6441: 3216 insurance law, 3216(i) insurance law, 3221 insurance law, 3221(l) insurance law
S6441A: 3216 insurance law, 3216(i) insurance law, 3221 insurance law, 3221(l) insurance law