The Trump Administration Is Coming, So Now What? Answers to Your Health Care Questions
A lot of folks are asking if they can still get their health care at their local Planned Parenthood health centers. Let us reassure you: Our health centers are open, and Planned Parenthood is here to stay.
Here are answers to some of the questions we’re getting from concerned patients and supporters.
Q: Did the election make abortion illegal?
A: No. Safe, legal abortion is still the law of the land.
The election didn’t make abortion illegal overnight. Politicians who oppose safe and legal abortion won many elections on November 8 — including the Presidential race — but the laws haven’t changed yet. As of today, you have the exact same access to abortion that you had before the election, and it’ll only change if the laws are changed.
If you want to have an abortion, contact your nearest Planned Parenthood health center.
Q: Did Planned Parenthood get shut down?
A: Nope. Our doors are open, and they’re staying open.
Planned Parenthood health centers are open as usual, and 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.
Looking for birth control, emergency contraception, STD testing, cancer screening, pelvic exams, pregnancy testing, abortion, or a place to discuss your pregnancy options? Contact your nearest Planned Parenthood health center. Some health centers offer hormone replacement therapy and other services, too.
Q: I’m worried about my health care coverage under the Affordable Care Act. Should I make all my doctors appointments ASAP?
A: Yes, it’s always important to schedule needed doctor’s appointments. And if you don’t have health insurance, it’s not too late to sign up through the Affordable Care Act.
It’s never a bad idea to make the health care appointments you need and get on top of your preventive care while you have coverage. The Affordable Care Act — and all its benefits like full coverage of preventive care including birth control — won’t go away unless there is a change in law.
If you don’t have health insurance, you can enroll now. The deadline is January 31, 2017. If you enroll by December 15th, your coverage can kick in as early as New Year’s Day. If you already have coverage under ACA, you can update your information or look for a new plan until January 31st.
Most people who are uninsured get financial help to buy a plan. Check out PlannedParenthoodHealthInsurancefacts.org to find the plans you’re eligible for and which ones include Planned Parenthood health centers. The site also helps you find local, in-person assistance with signing up for health insurance.