NJ S1964

Removes in vitro fertilization (IVF) from the list of infertility treatments subject to preconditions requiring patients to first exhaust less expensive treatments before coverage begins.

Applies to group health insurance plans covering more than 50 persons in New Jersey, including hospital service corporations, medical service corporations, health service corporations, HMOs, and state/school employee health benefit programs.

Maintains existing coverage requirements for infertility services including diagnosis, medications, surgery, IVF, embryo transfer, artificial insemination, and up to four completed egg retrievals per lifetime.

Retains eligibility restrictions for gamete intra fallopian transfer (GIFT) and zygote intra fallopian transfer (ZIFT), requiring patients to exhaust less expensive treatments, be 45 or younger, and not exceed the egg retrieval limit.

Preserves religious employer exemptions allowing churches and church-affiliated organizations to exclude certain infertility treatments from coverage if contrary to their religious tenets.