Posted on 04/01/2002 5:28:47 AM PST by Tumbleweed_Connection
Gov. Gray Davis has ordered HMOs to pay for women's morning-after contraceptives, making California the first state in the nation to cover the pills.
"A woman's right to choose must never be held up by red tape," Davis said Wednesday. The Democrat has been trumpeting his support for abortion rights and increased access to contraceptives in his reelection fight against GOP gubernatorial nominee Bill Simon.
Simon's spokesman Bob Taylor wouldn't say whether the Republican, an abortion opponent, supported the increased access to emergency contraceptives. "There are much more important topics," Taylor said.
The morning-after pill can prevent ovulation or fertilization when taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex.
Under Davis' directive, HMOs are required to cover the costs through pharmacists in their networks or, in emergency situations, from pharmacists who do not have a contract with the HMO.
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