Advancing Fertility Equity: Why I Spoke Up for SB 5121 (companion bill HB 1129) concerning health plan coverage of fertility-related services at the Washington State Capitol
- Quiana Daniels
- Jan 31
- 4 min read
Fertility Struggles Are Real
1 in 6 people experience infertility in their lifetime, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) - locally, that number translates to approximately 200,000 Washingtonians who may need fertility services. While these statistics might be well-known, the heartache behind it is often overlooked. I see it firsthand every day, especially among people of color who face additional hurdles—financial, systemic, and emotional—just to access care. These struggles aren’t simply numbers on a page; they’re individuals and families longing for the chance to grow.
Why I Spoke Up for SB 5121 & HB 1129
Recently, I testified before the Washington State Senate Committee on Health and Long-term Care in support of Senate Bill (SB) 5121 and its companion House Bill (HB) 1129. I have been asked, why did you testify Quiana? As a RN home fertility nurse with over 20 years of healthcare experience (and sitting Vice-Chair and Legislative Chair of the Washington State Board of Nursing), who regularly witnesses the mental, physical, and financial toll fertility challenges take on families, I know these bills have the power to transform lives. Both SB 5121 and HB 1129 aim to:
Expand Fertility Insurance Coverage: Because cost shouldn’t keep anyone from starting a family.
Recognize Advanced Practice Providers: Nurses and physician assistants play a critical role in diagnosing and managing infertility; their expertise must be included and covered.
Address Racial Disparities: Communities of color, including my own, often receive the least support yet face some of the highest hurdles in accessing reproductive care.
Recognizing Disparities in Fertility Care
As an African American woman, I’ve seen how systemic barriers can make fertility treatments feel out of reach. Whether it’s being dismissed when voicing concerns or struggling to find culturally competent healthcare providers, the challenges add up. The result? Many in Black communities—and other communities of color—remain underserved and underrepresented in fertility care. This isn’t just frustrating—it can be devastating.
Every story I hear fuels my commitment to fight for fair treatment and comprehensive insurance coverage. My goal is simple: if you want a family, you deserve every opportunity to have one.
The Power & Responsibility of Fertility Clinics and Insurance Companies
The real power to effect change lies with those setting the standards for fertility treatment. When clinics and insurers step up, huge strides toward equity can happen. It’s crucial for them to:
Enact Inclusive Coverage Policies
Recognizing advanced practice providers and covering diverse treatment approaches ensures more people get the care they need.
Prioritize Culturally Competent Care
Everyone deserves respect and understanding, especially during something as emotional and personal as fertility treatment.
Partner with Home Fertility & Maternity Health Services
Collaborating with in-home fertility and maternity nursing teams (like those at Childress Nursing Services) helps reduce medication errors, cost overruns, and stress for clients. Clients feel more supported and can respond better to fertility treatment plans.
Track Outcomes & Data By regularly analyzing usage and success rates among marginalized communities, clinics and insurers can refine policies to ensure truly equitable care.
When organizations with financial and operational power commit to doing better, they open doors for countless individuals who would otherwise remain overlooked.
How You Can Get Involved
I firmly believe that everyone has a voice in shaping a more equitable fertility future. Here’s how you can make a difference:
Reach Out to Lawmakers: Ask them to champion bills like SB 5121 and HB 1129.
Share Your Story: If you’ve faced fertility challenges or are a supporter of someone who has, use social media or community forums to shed light on these issues.
Support Equity-Focused Providers: Seek out clinics and insurers committed to inclusive, compassionate care for all.
Talk to Your Fertility Clinics and Insurers About Services Like CNS: Encourage them to collaborate with in-home fertility and maternity nursing care providers that reduce medication errors, limit stress, and offer holistic support.
Advocate for Accountability: If you work within a clinic or insurance company, push for internal reviews of how coverage decisions affect diverse populations.
Looking Ahead
Every day, I see the resilience and hope of people who want nothing more than to welcome a child into their lives. The path can be daunting, but I’m here—along with many others—to push for policy reforms, offer home fertility and maternity services, and ensure no one feels alone in this journey.
Compassion and expertise can go hand in hand, and by working together—individuals, fertility clinics, home fertility and maternity nurses, health insurance companies, and legislators—we can make fertility care a reality for everyone. Let’s keep raising our voices, sharing our stories, and standing up for those who need it the most. After all, change begins when we recognize that every family’s dream matters.
Quiana Daniels
Founder / Healthcare Administrator of Childress Nursing Services
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