Family Planning Waiver Program
The Family Planning Waiver Program is a national Medicaid program that extends Medicaid coverage for family planning services to women who may not otherwise be eligible. Every state has its own Family Planning Waiver, and each state has its own set of eligibility requirements and list of services that are covered. While the program is aimed at women, some states provide family planning services to men as well.
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History
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The Family Planning Waiver Program was developed to provide Medicaid coverage to women who do not otherwise qualify. The program is designed to reduce unplanned pregnancies and infant deaths by providing women with family planning services. The program was established in the 1980s when Congress initially allowed (and then later required) states to provide prenatal, delivery and postnatal care to women with incomes higher than the standard Medicaid limits.
Eligibility
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In order to qualify for the Family Planning Waiver Program, your household income cannot exceed 185 percent of the federal poverty level. You must also provide proof of your identity and citizenship in the U.S.
Keep in mind that each state has its own specific sets of eligibility requirements that must be met in addition to the household income limit and identity verification. -
What Is Covered
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The Family Planning Waiver Program covers family planning services. Women under the program are provided with annual physical exams and Pap smears, lab tests, treatment and medication for any sexually transmitted infections or diseases, birth control supplies and pregnancy testing if the need should arise. Some states may also cover pregnancy planning assistance and voluntary sterilization.
What Isn't Covered
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Each state has a list of guidelines and coverage information. While family planning services are covered, there are additional services that are not covered. Transportation to office visits is not covered, and many states do not extend coverage to men, or provide voluntary sterilization options to women. If you plan on applying for the Family Planning Waiver Program, you should review all information and criteria that your state provides.
How to Apply
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You can apply for the Family Planning Waiver Program at your local county health department or assistance office. You can also visit www.govbenefits.gov, click on "Benefits" and select "By State" in order to see a full list of the programs your state provides. From that list you can follow the desired link(s) to the information and application portal that each state provides for its government-funded programs.
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