Planned Parenthood Applauds New CMS Guidance Helping People Access Sexual and Reproductive Health Care

WASHINGTON, DC  — Yesterday, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) released vital new guidance reaffirming Medicaid patients’ federal right to get sexual and reproductive health care at the qualified provider of their choice. The guidance encourages states to increase access to over-the-counter contraception for people with Medicaid; reaffirms that state Medicaid programs can offer coverage for infertility treatment; and reminds states of their obligation to adhere to important confidentiality protections for people with Medicaid coverage.

“Everyone deserves access to high-quality sexual and reproductive health care. This new guidance from CMS will help people get care from the provider of their choice, get resources for contraception and infertility treatment, and ensure confidentiality in the process,” said Alexis McGill Johnson, president and CEO, Planned Parenthood Federation of America. “Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Planned Parenthood affiliates, and leading sexual and reproductive health care organizations across the country have been calling for this guidance from CMS for years. We are grateful to the Biden-Harris administration for listening to patients and providers on the frontlines of the post-Dobbs abortion access crisis, and issuing this guidance.” 

The new guidance builds on CMS’s 2016 guidance that also highlighted best practices and initiatives states can take to increase access to sexual and reproductive health care for people with Medicaid.

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Planned Parenthood is the nation’s leading provider and advocate of high-quality, affordable sexual and reproductive health care for all people, as well as the nation’s largest provider of sex education. With nearly 600 health centers across the country, Planned Parenthood organizations serve all patients with care and compassion, with respect, and without judgment, striving to create equitable access to health care. Through health centers, programs in schools and communities, and online resources, Planned Parenthood is a trusted source of reliable education and information that allows people to make informed health decisions. We do all this because we care passionately about helping people lead healthier lives. Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that supports the independently incorporated Planned Parenthood affiliates operating health centers across the U.S.