Free Reproductive Healthcare Available For Qualifying Pennsylvanians

An entire host of reproductive services and STI testing is available to Pennsylvanians for free or at a reduced cost.

PENNSYLVANIA STATE | On Sept. 21, 2022, Department of Human Services (DHS) Special Advisor Sara Goulet, the Women’s Health Caucus, and Planned Parenthood representatives met to promote free and reduced-cost reproductive, perinatal, and maternal health care programs available to qualifying residents.

“As reproductive rights are being rolled back across our country, I want to thank the many health care professionals in Pennsylvania who are not only taking care of people in the Commonwealth, but people from other states who are coming here to get the health care they need and deserve to live healthy lives with dignity,” said Goulet. “Our fellow Pennsylvanians need to know that abortion remains safe and legal here, and that services and help with costs for reproductive and pregnancy-related health care is available.”

Qualifying individuals are eligible for free or reduced-cost reproductive health care through Medicaid and the DHS Family Planning Services programs. Free and discounted services available include:

  • Health care provider visits.
  • Birth control.
  • Testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
  • Screenings and education for some types of cancer.
  • Pregnancy counseling

Assistance is also available to those looking to prepare for pregnancy, prevent unintended pregnancies, or control the timing and spacing of pregnancies. 

“It can be a challenge for women to find quality, consistent care throughout their pregnancies and to access the physical and behavioral health care they need after giving birth or after a pregnancy ends,” said Representative Mary Jo Daley. “The Medicaid extension addresses this issue by extending coverage from two months to 12 months postpartum. This is just one way to ensure consistency and trust in medical coverage for women during a time of maximum upheaval.”

Public funds are not available for abortions except in cases of rape, incest, or when the life of the pregnant person is in danger. For more information or to apply for Medical Assistance and other assistance programs in Pennsylvania, visit www.dhs.pa.gov/compass