In response to “They cover Viagra,” March 20:
First of all, I would like to applaud Ms. Hite for bringing our attention to this matter. It is shameful that our judicial system would adopt such an antiquated and sexist attitude toward contraception.
However, I think it is more important for female students to know about the discrimination they will face if they subscribe to the insurance policy offered by Indiana University. Under my parents’ health insurance, I was able to obtain my birth-control prescription for about $10 a month. Now, under IU’s health-insurance plan, I pay $45 a month. And as the IDS reported Jan. 23, the same prescription would cost $40 at the IU Health Center.
Unfortunately, The Chickering Group (the insurance provider) also discriminates against students who are responsible enough to get tested for STDs. After being tested at the health center, I submitted a claim to be reimbursed for some of my out-of-pocket expenses. My claim was denied, stating that the policy did not cover these services.
Is it just me or does this company completely misunderstand the concept of preventative medicine? While I understand it is my choice to be sexually active, I do not think I deserve to be punished for being responsible about it. After all, the potential consequences of being irresponsible would be far more costly.
I hope the administration is reading today’s edition of the Jordan River Forum. I am fortunate because I will no longer have to suffer under my current insurance policy after I start my full-time job in July. But thousands of students will continue to purchase this plan, not knowing the true cost until it is too late.
Francesca Smith
Senior
