Private insurance companies now covering over-the-counter birth control, state says

Apr. 22—Private insurance companies operating in New Mexico are fully covering Opill, the first daily oral contraceptive pill to gain approval for over-the-counter use in the U.S.

The New Mexico Office of Superintendent of Insurance announced last week private health plans have all added full coverage of the medication, following New Mexico's Medicaid program, which is also making Opill available free of charge to enrollees.

Deputy Superintendent of Insurance Colin Baillio said the office was considering issuing an order to require full coverage but learned private insurers in New Mexico had already taken that step.

The department doesn't regulate self-funded employer health plans, Medicare or Tricare, the insurance provider for active duty military members and their families.

Opill, manufactured by Ireland-based Perrigo, is a progestin-only medication that contains no estrogen. The medication has been deemed 98% effective in preventing pregnancy when used correctly.

The drug gained approval for nonprescription use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration last year and became available for over-the-counter use in March.