25-501 New Billing Guidelines for Immediate Postpartum Contraception Services Under Medi-Cal

Date: 05/22/25

Separate billing allowed starting January 1, 2025

A new California law, Assembly Bill (AB) 2129, is set to transform billing practices for immediate postpartum contraception. As of January 1, 2025, health plans must allow separate billing for intrauterine devices (IUDs), contraceptive implants, and related services provided immediately after childbirth under Medi-Cal coverage.

Key provisions of AB 2129

Effective January 1, 2025, any health care service plan contract issued, amended or renewed must adhere to the following requirements:

• Allows a provider to separately bill for devices, implants, or professional services, or a combination thereof, associated with immediate postpartum contraception if the birth takes place in a general acute care hospital or licensed birth center.
• Prohibits the provider contract from considering these devices, implants, or services to be part of a payment for general obstetric procedures.
• Safeguards a member’s right to direct access to women’s health care services, including contraceptive options, while  ensuring informed consent is upheld.

Additional Information

Providers are encouraged to access the provider portal for real-time information, including eligibility verification, claims status, prior authorization status, plan summaries, and more.

If you have questions regarding the information contained in this update, contact Community Health Plan of Imperial Valley at 833-236-4141.

 

This information applies to Physicians, Participating Physician Groups (PPGs), and Hospitals.

This information applies to Medi-Cal in Imperial county.