The Family Planning Program offers free benefits that include services such as pelvic exams, birth control and sterilization. If you are eligible, you may choose to enroll in a health plan and the Family Planning Program. If you or a household member are eligible for Medicaid or Maryland Children’s Health Program (MCHP), you do not need to enroll in family planning, because it is already included. This program is limited to family planning services and will not meet your other health insurance needs. Some services that are not covered in this program may be covered under your private health plan. Check with your insurance company for more details.

What benefits does the Family Planning Program offer?

Does this program provide prenatal services?

This program does not cover prenatal services, abortion services, or services to assist with infertility.

What does it cost to enroll in the Family Planning Program?

There are no fees to enroll, no monthly premiums, no deductibles or annual limits, and no co-pays for birth control prescriptions.

Who qualifies for the Family Planning Program?

Low income men and women of any age who meet the following requirements:

You should not enroll in the Family Planning Program if:

If you enroll in the Family Planning Program will you be required to join a Managed Care Organization (MCO)?

No, you are not required to join an MCO. You will receive a family planning card, which allows you to visit any family planning provider in Maryland who accepts Medicaid. If you already have a primary care doctor, contact him or her about participation in the Family Planning Program. Most local health departments, community health centers, federally qualified health centers, and Planned Parenthood also accept the card.

What does the Family Planning Program card look like?

The Family Planning Program card is purple and white.

Should you enroll in the Family Planning Program if you are already enrolled or are planning to enroll in Medicaid or MCHP?

No, if you are enrolled or newly eligible for Medicaid or MCHP, you already have family planning benefits. Call your MCO if you need help finding a family planning provider.

If you enroll in a private health plan, can you also enroll in the Family Planning Program if you are eligible?

Yes, if you are eligible for both a private health plan and the Family Planning Program, you may enroll in both programs.

If you do not want to enroll in Medicaid or a private health plan, can you enroll in the Family Planning Program only?

Yes, if you only want family planning services, you can enroll in the Family Planning Program without enrolling in Medicaid, MCHP, or a private health plan. However, the Family Planning Program is not health insurance and will not cover other kinds of health care services, including having a baby.

If some of your household members want to enroll in the Family Planning Program and some do not, can each of you enroll in different programs on the same application?

Yes, each eligible household member can make selections independently.

Can you apply for retroactive coverage of benefits provided by the Family Planning Program?

Yes, you can apply for program benefits for up to three months prior to the date of your application.