Kenyon recognizes the need for timely, high-quality reproductive health services. Starting this summer, when the College’s next benefits cycle goes into effect, Kenyon’s employee and student health insurance plans will include coverage of legally obtained abortion care as part of comprehensive health coverage. Like all covered services, care would be subject to appropriate deductible and coinsurance fees.
Previously, coverage was restricted to cases where an abortion was deemed medically necessary. The additional coverage reflects the guidance of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, which considers abortion an essential component of comprehensive, evidence-based health care.
This decision, like any expansion of coverage, was carefully considered and included a review of data projecting potential usage and costs for participants, which are estimated to be low. The Benefits Advisory Committee was part of this review, with final decisions made by Kenyon’s senior staff.
It is important to note that it has been and will continue to be Kenyon’s practice to restrict coverage to medically necessary procedures and care required by the Affordable Care Act. This practice helps keep health insurance costs manageable for both participants and the College.
The new benefits year begins for employees on July 1, 2024, and for students August 15, 2024. Enrollment is optional for both programs.