Biden-Harris Administration and Private Sector Unite to Improve Access to Affordable Contraception
In a recent development, the Biden-Harris Administration has collaborated with private sector leaders to discuss and enhance accessibility to affordable contraception. This meeting was led by Jennifer Klein, Assistant to the President and Director of the Gender Policy Council, and Neera Tanden, Assistant to the President and Domestic Policy Advisor. Noteworthy attendees included Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra, Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su, and Assistant Secretary for Tax Policy at the Department of the Treasury Lily Batchelder.
During the meeting, the Administration officials emphasized the need to build upon the progress made under the Affordable Care Act. They highlighted the expansion of contraception access and the considerable cost savings for women that have been achieved through this act. Additionally, they stressed the importance of implementing the President’s third Executive Order on reproductive health care access, which specifically aimed to strengthen contraception access.
One of the key topics discussed was the recent Request for Information concerning coverage and access to over-the-counter preventive services, including contraception. The Administration officials stated the significance of continued private sector leadership and called upon participants to take substantial actions in support of improving access to contraception. Participants shared updates on their efforts to ensure contraception access, including progress made in offering over-the-counter contraception. They also emphasized their commitment to complying with the Affordable Care Act’s requirements and advancing access to preventive services.
Notably, the meeting saw the participation of various organizations, such as the AFL-CIO, Alliance of Community Health Plans, American Pharmacists Association, AHIP, Association for Community Affiliated Health Plans, Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, Business Group on Health, ERISA Industry Committee, HR Policy Association, and the Pharmaceutical Care Management Association.
This collaboration between the Biden-Harris Administration and the private sector brings together different stakeholders to address the critical issue of contraception access. By leveraging the progress made under the Affordable Care Act and encouraging private sector initiatives, the aim is to ensure that individuals have affordable and high-quality contraceptive options.
The meeting highlights the ongoing commitment of the Biden-Harris Administration to advancing access to preventive services. By continuing to engage with the private sector and emphasizing the importance of contraception access, they are taking significant steps towards providing reproductive health care that is accessible and affordable for all. This collaboration sets a positive precedent for future discussions and actions necessary to improve access to contraception and empower individuals to make informed choices about their reproductive health.
