Planning in Uncertain Times
You have questions. We have answers.
With all the news about the president and his administration’s plans, you may be wondering if you can still get your health care at Planned Parenthood. Please know our health centers are still open as usual, and our staff are 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: What does it mean if Planned Parenthood is defunded? Will that mean my health center will close?
A: Defunding means that the government will no longer pay Planned Parenthood for taking care of people with Medicaid coverage for their health services. It does not directly mean that you cannot receive care from us, it means that we will not be reimbursed by Medicaid for that care. You can talk to us about any arrangements or other options that might be available for your care.
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 preventative 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 and would like to change methods, we are 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 works 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 is a change in the law.
Q: What’s going to happen to abortion? Can I still get an abortion?
A: Yes, Planned Parenthood provides safe and legal abortion services. 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 support Planned Parenthood and/or abortion rights?
A: Yes, the majority of Americans support access to reproductive 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 everyone, 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 in this country.
Q: How can I get involved and help?
A: Here are some great ways you can show your support:
Donate! Our donations are a major part of what keeps our doors open. Anything helps. Use the button above to donate today.
Sign up online to volunteer. We are so grateful for the overwhelming support. We are accepting online volunteer applications 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. Sign up to volunteer.