Planned Parenthood's Future
What will happen to birth control, insurance, abortion, and Planned Parenthood in the future?
You Have Questions. We Have Answers.
You may be wondering if you can still get your health care at Planned Parenthood. Our health centers are open as usual, and staff is doing what they’ve always done: getting up in the morning; opening the health center doors; and providing expert, affordable health care to anyone who needs it.
Insured or uninsured, we’ve got you covered.
Here are answers to some of the questions we’re getting from concerned patients and supporters.
Q: Should I make all my doctor appointments ASAP?
A: It’s always a good idea to make the health care appointments you need and manage your preventive care. As always, be proactive about your health — and remember that right now nothing has changed regarding the health care law.
Q: Is my birth control still covered without paying a copay?
A: Yes. This provision of the health care law is still in effect which means that birth control is still covered without a copay. That hasn’t changed.
Q: Should I get an IUD or implant now in case the health care law changes?
A: If you have a concern about your birth control or would like to change methods, we’re here to help. IUDs and implants are very popular because they are long-acting and reversible — but birth control is not “one size fits all.” Our women’s health experts can help you find the birth control method that is best for you.
Q: What’s going to happen to the Affordable Care Act / Obamacare?
A: The Affordable Care Act (ACA) is still in effect and will stay that way unless there’s a change in the law. That means if you use Medi-Cal or if you enrolled through Covered California and get subsidies, nothing has changed.
Q: Can I still sign up for health insurance under the Affordable Care Act / Obamacare?
A: If you don’t have health insurance, you can enroll now. The deadline is January 31, 2017. Most people who are uninsured get financial help to buy a plan. If you already have coverage under ACA, you can update your information or look for a new plan until January 31st. Visit Planned Parenthood Health Insurance Facts to find out what type of health care coverage you’re eligible for, which plans include Planned Parenthood health centers, and to find local in-person assistance.
Q: Is the Family PACT program still available?
A: Yes, Family PACT insurance for no-cost family planning services remains in effect and has not changed. If you do not have insurance, you may be able to receive these services under California's Family PACT program if you are a California resident, have no other health coverage for the family planning services you need, and meet specific income requirements. Ask our front desk staff about the Family PACT program. If you are eligible, we can enroll you at the time of your appointment and provide services immediately. Remember: Planned Parenthood’s doors are open to everyone — whether they have insurance or not.
Q: What’s going to happen to abortion? Can I still get an abortion?
A: Yes, Planned Parenthood provides safe and legal abortion services. While we may face renewed attempts to restrict access to abortion in other parts of the country, California has constitutional protections regarding abortion. And Planned Parenthood will continue to fight for everyone in our communities to have access to this important service when they need it.
Q: Do most Americans oppose Planned Parenthood and/or abortion rights?
A: Not at all. In fact, the majority of Americans support access to health care at Planned Parenthood and want abortion to stay safe and legal.
Q: What’s going to happen to Planned Parenthood?
A: There is uncertainty ahead of us as anti-women’s health legislators target us, but we will never stop fighting to protect access to the full range of care our patients depend on: affordable birth control, STI testing and treatment, cancer screening and abortion. We are 100 years strong and won’t back down.
Q: I’m from a family of immigrants. Should I be worried?
A: Planned Parenthood’s doors are open to everybody, regardless of their immigration status, race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, gender, religion, or income. You are welcome here. Our partner organization ACLU has great resources explaining your rights here.
Q: How can I get involved and help?
A. Here are some ways that you can show your support:
Donate! Our donations are a major part of what keeps our doors open. Anything helps. To donate, visit planned.org/donate.
Volunteer with Planned Parenthood California Central Coast. We are so grateful for the overwhelming support. We are always accepting new volunteers and developing more opportunities to support us; however, given the volume of new applicants, we ask for your patience as we respond to all inquiries. If you are interested in volunteering, email your resume with cover letter to: Human Resources Department at [email protected].
Stay politically aware and active by visiting Planned Parenthood Central Coast Action Fund’s website.
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