Navigating Health Insurance Selection for in Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Benefits: A Study Protocol

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Reproductive Health
• Health Insurance Literacy

Background:

• A university implemented 50% co-insurance for up to two cycles of in vitro fertilization (IVF) for eligible employees.
• Understanding health insurance benefits is crucial for utilizing fertility treatments like IVF.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a health insurance educational intervention on health insurance literacy and IVF benefit utilization.
• To improve access to family-building options for reproductive-aged employees.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial was conducted with reproductive-aged employees.
• The intervention included education on insurance terms, costs, and provider networks.
• Validated patient-reported outcomes were collected over one year.

Main Results:

• 217 employees were randomized, with 81% being female and 39% reporting infertility.
• Participants reported moderate confidence in using and proactively managing their health insurance plans.
• The intervention aimed to improve literacy and utilization of IVF benefits.

Conclusions:

• The study designed a trial to assess an educational intervention's impact on health insurance literacy and IVF benefit use.
• The goal is to expand family-building options by enhancing employees' understanding of fertility care insurance coverage.