What IUDs does Bluecross Blueshield in Alabama cover?

An IUD, or intrauterine device, is a small, T-shaped device made of plastic that is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. They have become a go-to long-term birth control solution in the United States. They’re highly effective and low maintenance. Wondering what IUDs does Bluecross Blueshield Alabama cover?

In this post, we’ll walk through:

• Insurance coverage details for IUDs under BCBS Alabama
• IUDs included and excluded
• Eligibility, prior authorization, and denial handling
• How to confirm your coverage and who to call
• And exactly how Klarity Health can get you scheduled—fast.

Interested in IUD treatment? Book an appointment with a provider on Klarity Health.

Does Blue Cross Blue Shield Alabama cover IUD?

Under the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) preventive care benefits, most BCBSAL plans cover IUDs. This typically includes the cost of the device, insertion, and follow-up, at no out-of-pocket cost when you use an in-network provider. However, coverage may vary depending on your specific plan or employer group.

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What IUDs does Blue Cross BlueShield Alabama cover?

There are two main types of IUDs –  hormonal IUDs, which release progestin, and copper IUDs, which do not contain hormones. There are also several brand names. BCBSAL’s contraceptive drug list includes both hormonal and non-hormonal IUDs at no additional cost when billed as preventive care. Including:

• Mirena (levonorgestrel)
• Kyleena
• Liletta
• Skyla
• Paragard (copper, non-hormonal)

These IUDs are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for contraception in women of reproductive age. In addition, Mirena and Liletta are approved for the treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding for up to 5 years.

What IUD does Bluecross Blueshield of Alabama not cover?

While BCBSAL covers major FDA-approved IUDs, a few exceptions may apply:

• IUDs that are experimental or not FDA-approved are not covered.
• Over-the-counter birth control (like condoms or emergency contraception) may be covered separately, but not under IUD benefits.
• Some employer-sponsored plans may exclude IUD coverage due to religious exemptions.
• IUDs obtained outside the U.S. or placed by out-of-network providers may not be covered.

To avoid surprise fees, always review your plan documents for exclusions.

Eligibility criteria for Bluecross Blueshield Alabama coverage for IUD

To qualify for full IUD coverage under BCBSAL, you typically must meet the following:

• Be enrolled in a BCBSAL plan that includes women’s preventive health services (ACA-compliant).
• Use an in-network OB/GYN, nurse practitioner, or clinic for IUD placement.
• Your employer-sponsored plan must not opt out of contraceptive coverage for religious reasons.
• The IUD must be used for contraception or for an approved medical condition, such as heavy menstrual bleeding.

If any of these conditions aren’t met, coverage may be reduced or denied.

How to check whether my Bluecross Blueshield of Alabama covers an IUD

You can check your IUD coverage in a few simple steps:

• Log in to your member portal at AlabamaBlue.com and view your preventive care benefits.
• Review your Evidence of Coverage document under the “Preventive Physician Services” section.
• Call the member services number on your BCBS ID card and ask specifically about IUD coverage.
• Klarity Health can also help connect you with a provider for consultation.

Does Blue Cross Blue Shield Alabama cover IUDs online?

IUDs are unlike other forms of birth control because they can’t be self-administered at home. So while an IUD can be prescribed, it’s not like a prescription you can pick up at the pharmacy. IUD insertion must be done in person by a licensed provider such as an OB/GYN or a nurse practitioner. Still, BCBSAL does support telehealth consultations for birth control counseling, which may include discussions about IUDs and referrals for in-person placement.

Top telehealth platforms for IUD counseling

Here are some top telehealth platforms offering contraceptive counseling, including IUD options.

What to do if Bluecross Blueshield of Alabama denies my IUDs

Sometimes, if your IUD is rejected, you can appeal. If your IUD claim is denied, follow these steps to determine your best course of action:

1. Review your Explanation of Benefits (EOB) to find the denial code and reason. It may say,  “prior authorization not obtained” or “out-of-network provider”.
2. Contact BCBSAL Member Services at the number listed on your card. Ask why the claim was denied and whether you qualify for an internal appeal or external review.
3. File an appeal with supporting documentation such as medical records and a provider letter explaining medical necessity. Submit this within 30 days (pre-service) or 60 days (post-service).
4. If needed, request an external review through an Independent Review Organization (IRO) within four months of your final internal denial.
5. Explore state grievance options via the Alabama Department of Insurance or protections under the No Surprises Act.

Klarity Health can help support appeals and guide you through this process.

Do I need prior authorization from BCBSAL for an IUD?

In most cases, no prior authorization is needed for preventive IUD services when using in-network providers. However:

• Some employer-sponsored or self-funded plans may require prior authorization for certain services.
• If the IUD is being used for a medical condition (like heavy menstrual bleeding), documentation and precertification might be required.
• Always confirm with BCBSAL or your provider before your appointment.

Key takeaway

BCBS Alabama covers all FDA-approved IUDs (Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, Skyla, and Paragard) at no cost when used for contraception and billed as preventive care. But coverage exclusions may apply for out-of-network services, non-FDA devices, or religiously exempt plans. You can check your plan details to determine coverage and whether you need prior authorization. If you want to discuss birth control options, telehealth platforms, like Klarity Health, can help. They can also support you through the process of appealing a denied IUD claim. 

Book an Online IUD consultation on Klarity Health

Getting an IUD starts with the right conversation. Klarity Health makes it easy to connect with licensed providers who can guide you through the process:

• Match you with in-network providers for IUD counseling
•  Coordinate scheduling, billing, and paperwork
• Provide appeals support if your claim is denied

Book your online IUD consultation now

Find out if your insurance covers birth control

Talk to a provider on Klarity to explore birth control options and get guidance on whether coverage may apply.

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