Dr. Katherine VanHise Featured on Spectrum 1 SoCal News Discussing SB 729: Expanding Fertility Coverage in California

Dr. Katherine VanHise of HRC Fertility Beverly Hills was recently featured on Spectrum 1 SoCal News to discuss SB 729, a new California law that represents a major step forward in fertility coverage and patient access to care.

During the segment, Dr. VanHise highlighted several of the most impactful changes under SB 729:

• More expansive language around fertility benefits, helping reduce restrictive interpretations by insurance plans
• Elimination of the 12 month waiting requirement for many patients, meaning individuals may no longer need to try to conceive for a full year before qualifying for covered fertility treatment
• More inclusive access for LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples, ensuring fertility coverage better reflects the diverse ways families are built today

As Dr. VanHise explained, these updates can significantly shorten the time it takes for patients to access medically appropriate fertility care and begin treatment sooner.

Watch the full segment on our Instagram: Watch Now

What is SB 729?

SB 729 is a California state bill designed to expand and clarify fertility insurance coverage. The law updates prior mandates by broadening definitions and removing barriers that previously delayed care for many patients.

Who Will SB 729 Cover?

SB 729 applies to many California regulated health insurance plans, particularly fully insured employer sponsored health plans in California (generally employers with 100+ employees), and individual and small group plans regulated by the state. Coverage specifics may vary, but the law is intended to:

• Support individuals and couples experiencing infertility • Provide more inclusive access regardless of marital status or sexual orientation • Reduce delays caused by outdated or narrow eligibility requirements

The law does not automatically apply to:

• Self funded (ERISA) employer plans, which are regulated at the federal level
• Certain religious or exempt plans

Even if a plan is subject to SB 729, specific covered services may differ, making benefit verification essential.

Does My Plan Qualify?

Important note on employer size: SB 729 primarily impacts fully insured plans offered by employers with 100 or more employees, as these plans are regulated by the state of California.

Use this quick checklist as a starting point:

• Is your insurance plan fully insured and regulated by the state of California?
• Is your coverage not self funded (ERISA) through a large employer?
• Does your plan currently list fertility or infertility benefits?
• Are you seeking care as an individual, couple, or part of the LGBTQIA+ community?

If you answered yes to one or more of these, SB 729 may apply to your plan. Final eligibility always depends on benefit verification.

What Should Patients Do Next?

1. Review your insurance plan to understand your fertility benefits
2. Schedule a consultation with a fertility specialist to discuss eligibility under SB 729
3. Work with a financial counselor to confirm coverage and next steps

Fertility coverage can be complex, but having expert guidance can make a meaningful difference.

Schedule Your Consultation at HRC Fertility

If you are wondering how SB 729 may impact your fertility care, Dr. VanHise and the team at HRC Fertility Beverly Hills are here to help.

Take the Next Step:

Schedule your appointment today with Dr. Katherine VanHise at the HRC Beverly Hills location to explore your options and take the next step toward building your family.