Health insurers must cover some over-the-counter birth control without a prescription

New rules would make it easier for people to get preventive health services, including some birth control, without paying extra. Health plans would have to cover certain over-the-counter contraceptives without a prescription or co-pay.

For years, health insurers could use complex rules to avoid covering preventive care, even when it was medically necessary. These proposed rules force insurers to create a clear, fast way for people to get coverage for these services, as determined by their doctor. This means fewer surprise bills and less hassle for patients seeking basic preventive care.