Rhode Island Title X Family Planning Program

Frequently Asked Questions about Family Planning in Rhode Island

What is the Rhode Island Family Planning program?

The State of Rhode Island’s Family Planning program funds family planning agencies throughout the state. The Department of Health contracts with ten agencies throughout the state to provide direct family planning services to individuals in need. Each year, Rhode Island's family planning sites serve approximately 19,000 clients, including 1500 teenagers in need of confidential services. Click for a list of family planning agencies in Rhode Island.

Why are family planning services important?

Family planning agencies often serve as the entry point for people seeking health care, and are the only source of health care for millions of low-income individuals in the United States. Without family planning agencies, many women would not have access to yearly physicals, screening for cancer and sexually transmitted diseases, or other services.

Who does the Family Planning program serve?

The Family Planning program serves men and women up to 64 years old, including teenagers.

How much do family planning agencies charge for services?

Federal family planning laws require that services and supplies be provided on a sliding fee scale, based on income. However, family planning programs may ask for a donation. Bills to minors obtaining confidential services must be based on the resources of the minor and clients must not be denied services because of the inability to pay. Services are provided to Medicaid eligible, non-Medicaid eligible and privately insured clients. Family planning regulations also require agencies to assure client confidentiality.

What services are provided by family planning agencies?

Family planning programs provide:

• counseling and education on birth control methods,
• pregnancy testing,
• HIV counseling, testing, and referral services,
• yearly physical exams, including screening for testicular, breast and cervical cancer, diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases, and
• some lab testing.

They provide confidential services for individuals who may prefer not to discuss family planning issues with others, and offer birth control supplies at a low cost. Family planning agencies do not provide abortion services.

In addition, family planning programs encourage teens to involve their families in their decision to seek family planning services. They also provide counseling to teens on how to avoid coercive attempts to get them to have sex.

Where do I find family planning agencies?

Click here for a list of family planning agencies in Rhode Island