These Questions originally appeared on Quora - the knowledge sharing network where compelling questions are answered by people with unique insights.
Answers by Cecile Richards, President, Planned Parenthood Federation of America & PP Action Fund, on Quora.
What would happen if Planned Parenthood lost federal funding? Why would that be so bad?
There is a great deal of misunderstanding about federal funding and Planned Parenthood. Planned Parenthood health centers are reimbursed for health services provided, just like all other hospitals and doctors. We have many patients who come to us as their primary doctor - for cancer screenings, birth control, STI testing and treatment, and even well-woman annual exams. What some members of Congress are trying to do is to eliminate the ability of women and men on federal programs from choosing Planned Parenthood. If they are successful, approximately 1.6 million people would lose their access to Planned Parenthood. Since so many in Congress believe its important to be able to choose your own doctor, we think that should apply to everyone, including the millions of folks who choose to come to us.
One other misconception is that federal funds pay for abortion services. In very very limited circumstances of rape, incest, or when the mother's life is in danger, federal funds may be used. But the vast majority of federal dollars go for preventive care - including birth control, which is the best antidote to unintended pregnancy.
Why does Planned Parenthood receive nearly half of its funding from the federal government? Why not raise more private funds and avoid controversy?
The reimbursements we get for providing specific services to low-income patients work just like they do for other doctors' offices and hospitals. Again, Planned Parenthood doesn't get one big check from the federal government. Patients on Medicaid use the program as anyone would use their health insurance to receive and afford health care -- and we bill out for services provided like any other health care provider. Roughly 60% of our patients are on Medicaid, and we're proud to serve them. Unfortunately, many providers won't accept Medicaid patients, many of whom already have difficulty accessing care, especially given the existing shortage of reproductive health care providers. For these patients, Planned Parenthood may be the only provider they will see all year.
Planned Parenthood also raises money from individuals all across the country, to make sure no one goes without health care. We will continue to do so, and also believe it is important that patients on Medicaid are free to choose the health care provider they want to go to.
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