One million women of reproductive age receive their health insurance from Medicare, challenging the common misconception that Medicare is only for older adults. In fact, individuals with Medicare who can become pregnant are entitled to coverage for sexual and reproductive health services, including screenings for sexually transmitted infections and HIV. These benefits are comparable to coverage under Medicaid and private insurance plans, despite inaccurate stereotypes about older people and those with disabilities overshadowing them.
However, specific contraceptive methods like intrauterine devices, contraceptive implants, and tubal ligation may have limited coverage and higher cost sharing compared to Medicaid and private insurance. Abortion care is heavily restricted under Medicare, with the Hyde Amendment prohibiting coverage except in cases of rape, incest, or when the pregnancy threatens the life of the pregnant person. Pregnant individuals are also responsible for cost-sharing for all pregnancy-related services, including prenatal visits and breastfeeding supports and supplies.
To learn more about Women with Medicare and their access to sexual and reproductive health services, visit the KFF website where you can read a full report on the topic as well as explore 10 key facts about this important issue.
