Birth control is the same as any other medication prescribed by a doctor.  That certain companies get to opt out of this particular prescription is troubling.  Perhaps a health food store or gym would prefer not to pay for obesity drugs such as medication for Type II diabetes.  Should they also be able to opt out of the parts they don't like?  And the comment regarding men - most men I know are smart enough to realize that birth control is as much in their best interest as their woman's.  BTW - all prescriptions have a copay, even birth control, which no one expects for free.