The directive states that reporting on the travel is not to include "PII or HIPAA information," nor will reporting "specify what type of non- covered ART was the basis for travel." Image: wichayada suwanachun/Shutterstock.com
By: FEDweek StaffThe Department of the Navy has ended a policy of granting leave and covering “elective abortion-related” travel expenses for Sailors, Marines and dependents.
The policy leaves in place other allowable expenses under Tricare for non covered assisted reproductive treatment. Policies remain that allow service members to be authorized for administrative absence to obtain non-covered ART or for travel and transportation allowances for services not available local to the permanent duty station.
Permissible, non-covered ART includes: a. Ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval, including any needed medications and procedures required for retrieval, processing, and utilization for ART or cryopreservation; b. Sperm collection and processing for ART or cryopreservation; c. Intrauterine insemination; and, d. In vitro fertilization.
Commands have the responsibility of authorizing travel funding. Administrative absences can be extended to as many as 21 days, but will be limited to the minimum number of days needed for travel and the procedure itself. Convalescent leave will be provided when necessary.
The directive states that reporting on the travel is not to include “PII or HIPAA information,” nor will reporting “specify what type of non- covered ART was the basis for travel.” It does not tell commanders not to ask what the travel is for, as part of giving authorization.
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