Livingston, N.J. – A recent legislative change in New Jersey is set to broaden health insurance coverage for infertility services, now encompassing LGBTQ+ individuals.
Infertility treatments, notorious for their high costs and inconsistent insurance coverage, often pose eligibility challenges, especially for single parents or same-sex couples. However, a transformative shift has occurred in New Jersey.
Ralph Maguire-Losanno joyfully narrates the daily adventures with his 14-month-old son, Luca, a dream fulfilled for him and his partner, Michael Maguire-Losanno, since their marriage. The importance of family is paramount for the couple, who utilized Ralph’s sperm, a donated egg, and a carrier to bring Luca into their lives, estimating the cost at approximately $160,000.
“It was literally every dollar we had saved,” recounts Michael.
Despite their significant financial investment, the couple did not qualify for insurance coverage in New Jersey, as neither was deemed medically infertile.
“I felt discriminated against in some ways; it was frustrating,” expressed Michael.
Dr. Serena Chen, a reproductive specialist at CCRM Fertility, recognized the injustice and played a pivotal role in the passage of a new law in New Jersey expanding insurance coverage for infertility treatments.
“The law allows everyone to access treatments that are appropriate and cost-effective for them without regard to their sexual orientation,” explained Dr. Chen.
Ralph and Michael actively advocated for the new mandate, emphasizing its broad inclusivity.
“It is a significant increase in what is covered, and now it’s going to be applied across the board, whether you are a single person, a lesbian couple, a heterosexual couple, or a gay couple. It will not matter; if you need the service, it will be covered,” stated Ralph.
The couple has initiated the process for a second child, hopeful that some costs may be covered by the new law. While expenses related to surrogacy or carriers remain uncovered, numerous other costly services are now eligible for insurance coverage.
“So many people in the state of New Jersey are going to benefit from this coverage,” remarked Michael. “Anyone who wants a child this badly deserves a family.”
Governor Phil Murphy, who signed the bill in January, expressed that it would create new opportunities for New Jersey families to embark on one of the most challenging yet rewarding journeys—parenthood.
