Aetna – one of the largest healthcare companies in the United States – will now equally cover fertility treatments for LGBTQ+ patients, in a settlement to a class action lawsuit accusing the insurer of discriminating against LGBTQ+ people seeking treatment.
According to the National Women’s Law Center, Aetna will now make coverage for artificial insemination standard for all patients and will also ensure patients have equal access to IVF procedures, which can be incredibly expensive.
The lawsuit was originally filed in 2021. According to the suit, Aetna provided unequal access to fertility treatments for LGBTQ+ people trying to get pregnant. Before this settlement, Aetna provided insurance coverage to heterosexual people who said they were struggling with fertility more easily than LGBTQ+ people.
The lawsuit alleges Aetna required LGBTQ+ people to pay several cycles of fertility treatment out-of-pocket before offering coverage, but did not require heterosexual couples to.
Now, the insurer will set aside a $2 million fund to reimburse people affected by their previous discriminatory practices.
Kennedy Hunt P.C. applauds this settlement, a big step in protecting LGBTQ+ people and families in this country. Our passionate team fights for our clients’ civil rights. If you or someone you know has been a victim of discrimination, our attorneys at Kennedy Hunt, P.C. may be able to help you. Fill out a questionnaire so we can understand your claim.