The bill amends RCW 48.43.195 to enhance contraceptive coverage in health benefit plans. Effective January 1, 2026, health plans that include coverage for contraceptive drugs must provide reimbursement for a 12-month supply of these drugs when obtained at one time by the enrollee, unless a smaller supply is requested by the enrollee or mandated by the prescribing provider. Additionally, the bill stipulates that enrollees should have the option to receive contraceptive drugs on-site at the provider's office, if available, and that dispensing practices must adhere to clinical guidelines to ensure patient health and access to effective contraceptive options.

The bill also clarifies that health plans may limit refills in the last quarter of the plan year if a 12-month supply has already been dispensed during that year. The definition of "contraceptive drugs" is maintained to include all FDA-approved drugs used to prevent pregnancy, covering various administration methods such as oral, transdermal, and intravaginal.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 48.43.195
Bill as Passed Legislature: 48.43.195
Session Law: 48.43.195