Facing an unexpected pregnancy may not have been a situation you imagined finding yourself in. But now that it’s here, you probably have a lot of thoughts going through your head, and the most pervasive one may be: What do I do next? An unexpected pregnancy often comes with three possible paths, abortion, adoption, and parenting, and perhaps one of the driving factors behind your potential decision is cost. You may have heard of Medicaid, and you’re wondering if a free Medicaid abortion is a possible option. What exactly is Medicaid and is it possible to have a free Medicaid abortion?
Do you have questions about abortion and Medicaid, and how much a procedure may cost? Avenue Women’s Center can provide reliable information about your pregnancy and your options, including abortion. Receive information regarding how far along you are and early pregnancy risks through our free limited medical ultrasounds. Our expert staff will provide relevant information on abortion procedures and alternatives. We’ll give you space to process through your pregnancy decision in a confidential consultation.
Contact us today to discuss your unexpected pregnancy and receive support throughout all of your choices!
Locating Information About Your Pregnancy
Learning about an unexpected pregnancy and conducting research about your options can be overwhelming, but you do not have to do this alone. As you sort through your choices, consider what resource may be dedicated to offering you support and answers to some of your more complicated questions. Applying for Medicaid and understanding what it covers can be confusing, so it may be helpful to discuss it by either contacting your state or meeting with a pregnancy consultant to clarify any confusion about your options.
Does Medicaid Cover Abortion?
Depending on the situation, the cost can be one of the biggest concerns a woman experiencing an unexpected pregnancy faces. And if you’re considering abortion, then you may be worried about the price of the procedure. In most states, federal funding of abortion coverage is forbidden under the Hyde Amendment. However, a few states use their own funds to cover abortion.
When inquiring about a free Medicaid abortion in your state, you may want to ask if it’s only the procedure that’s covered, or if things such as a pre-ultrasound or RhoGAM for a negative blood type are included. To prevent any surprise expenses, you may also want to ask a healthcare provider or your state if follow-up care is covered under Medicaid should any complications arise.
What Is Pregnancy-Related Medicaid?
As you research and seek to understand the fine print behind a free Medicaid abortion, balance your information-gathering by taking the time to learn what pregnancy services are covered under Medicaid. This process can seem stressful. However, the same resources are often open to answering your questions. They can help you learn more about your options and the health-related services that may be available to you. Even if you are still thinking about abortion, knowing what treatments are covered can be important to your overall well-being.
You may want to see if you qualify for Medicaid Presumptive Eligibility (MPE), as this may offer you immediate and temporary coverage for outpatient health services while you’re pregnant. The services covered under MPE typically include prenatal checkups, doctor visits, lab tests, prenatal vitamins, medicine, specialty medical care, eye care, dental care, emergency room care, mental health, and substance abuse services, as well as transportation to places where these care options are offered.
Certain health care providers and health care facilities have a contract with Medicaid, treating those who are covered by Medicaid insurance. If you need help locating a list of medical providers who accept Medicaid, your local state office or local county health department can supply you with more information.
How to Determine Eligibility for Medicaid
Determining your eligibility for Medicaid and figuring out coverage can be a long, strenuous process. Understandably, you may feel as if you’re under enough pressure, so receiving help with tracking down all of this information can reduce some of the anxiety related to ensuring what you have learned is accurate and current.
Preparing for the next steps in an unexpected pregnancy decision can seem hard. Take time to learn what procedures and services may be covered. This can provide you with the answers you need to make an informed choice.
Sorting through Medicaid options can seem like a stressful process. The caring staff at Avenue Women’s Center will provide you with information about abortion and your pregnancy to assist you. Before moving forward with a Medicaid abortion, it important to learn more about the pregnancy and the options that are before you. An unexpected pregnancy can be an emotional journey. This can make thorough research seem like a confusing and burdensome chore. But our pregnancy consultants are here to answer any of your questions, addressing your concerns within a safe environment.
Reach out today to have your questions answered!
References:
- Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services. Programs for Pregnant Women. Retrieved from: https://www.illinois.gov/hfs/MedicalPrograms/AllKids/Pages/MomsAndBabies.aspx
- National Health Law Program. (2018, September). Q&A on Pregnant Women’s Coverage Under Medicaid and the ACA. Retrieved from: https://healthlaw.org/resource/qa-on-pregnant-womens-coverage-under-medicaid-and-the-aca/
The information provided here is general in nature. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a medical professional. Before any medical procedure, it is imperative that you discuss your personal medical history, risks, and concerns with your doctor. If you have questions during or after a procedure, your doctor should be immediately contacted. Avenue Women’s Center is not an emergency center. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as bleeding and/or pain, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your physician, go to an emergency room, or call 911.