October 21, 2025
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6 min.

What Medicaid Covers (That You Might Not Know About)

Picture this: You're scrolling through your phone, wondering if that uncomfortable itch needs medical attention, but your bank account says "maybe wait it out." 

Well, here's something that might surprise you — if you have Medicaid, you could be sitting on a goldmine of healthcare benefits you didn't even know existed. You wouldn’t need to “wait it out.”

Nearly one in four Americans have health insurance through the Medicaid program, yet many are missing out on reproductive health services that could transform their wellbeing.

At Twentyeight Health, we see it daily: patients shocked to discover their state Medicaid programs cover everything from family planning services to STI testing, all at zero cost. 

Let's uncover what does Medicaid cover that you might be missing out on.

The Hidden Gems in Your Medicaid Coverage

When most people think of Medicaid coverage, they imagine basic doctor visits and emergency care. But under federal Medicaid law, your mandatory benefits extend far beyond the basics. The Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and Medicaid work together to ensure comprehensive health coverage for millions.

Birth Control: More Options Than You Think

Here's where it gets exciting. Medicaid covers all FDA-approved contraceptive methods — not just "the pill." Your state program likely includes:

  • All hormonal methods — from pills to patches, rings to shots
  • Intrauterine devices (IUDs) and implants
  • Emergency contraception (yes, Planned Parenthood isn't your only option!)
  • Contraceptive services including counseling from a qualified provider
  • Follow-up care services and method switching if needed

Medicaid covers over 40% of births in the U.S., including nearly 50% of births in rural communities. This federal funding ensures reproductive health remains accessible to low income people across America.

The federal government mandates these services as part of essential health services, meaning Medicaid pays for the full range of options with no cost sharing.

Explore birth control options with Twentyeight Health — we accept state Medicaid in more states than any other telehealth platform.

STI Testing and Treatment: No Shame, No Cost

Let's normalize this conversation: everyone sexually active should get tested regularly. About half of sexually transmitted infections occur in people under 25, making access crucial. Your benefits include:

  • Comprehensive panels for sexually transmitted infections
  • Treatment medications through prescription drugs coverage
  • Partner treatment in many states
  • Follow-up testing to ensure effective methods worked
  • Preventive medications to improve access to protection

These optional benefits vary by state but often exceed federal regulations minimum requirements. More than half of states have expanded coverage beyond federal mandates.

Get confidential STI treatment through Twentyeight Health — judgment-free health care delivered to your door.

Pregnancy Support: From Planning to Postpartum

Whether you're preventing unintended pregnancies or planning a family, Medicaid has comprehensive coverage. Pregnant women receive priority enrollment, and low income parents maintain coverage postpartum.

The program covers:

  • Preconception counseling for adult women of reproductive age
  • Prenatal care throughout pregnancy
  • Labor and delivery services
  • Extended postpartum care (many states now provide coverage for a full year)

These services fall under both mandatory and optional benefits, depending on your state's Medicaid expansion status.

Telehealth Services: Care at Your Convenience

Since the COVID-19 public health emergency, telehealth access has revolutionized reproductive health services. All 50 states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico provide reimbursement for some form of live video in Medicaid fee-for-service.

This expansion means providers can offer:

  • Virtual appointments for family planning
  • Remote prescribing for contraceptive methods
  • Online physical therapy consultations
  • Mental health support through secured platforms

Start your telehealth visit today. Coverage includes virtual appointments just like in-person visits.

How to Actually Use Your Medicaid Benefits

Understanding eligibility requirements is crucial. The federal poverty level determines qualification, but each state has different thresholds. Here's your guide:

Step 1: Verify Your Benefits

State Medicaid agencies manage programs differently. The Social Security Act provides the framework, but state plan amendments can expand services. Contact your state's human services department to confirm specific coverage.

Step 2: Find the Right Provider

Not all providers accept Medicaid, but options are expanding:

  • Federally Qualified Health Centers must accept all Medicare and Medicaid
  • Community based services often specialize in reproductive health
  • Telehealth platforms like Twentyeight Health welcome Medicaid patients

Step 3: Know Your Rights

Federal law protects your access to family planning services. You can see any qualified provider for these services — not just your assigned primary care doctor. This ensures privacy and choice in your health decisions.

Maximizing Your Coverage: Services You're Missing

Beyond basics, here are services many don't realize are covered:

Annual Wellness Visits

These comprehensive check-ups go beyond a quick physical. They include:

  • Reproductive health screenings
  • Mental health assessments
  • Preventive care planning
  • Health risk assessments
  • Personalized prevention plans

Mental Health Support

Your mental health is just as important as your physical health, and Medicaid gets it:

  • Therapy sessions (often unlimited)
  • Psychiatric medications
  • Crisis intervention services
  • Substance abuse treatment

Preventive Services You Didn't Know Were Free

  • HPV vaccines (yes, even for adults up to age 26)
  • Breast and cervical cancer screenings
  • Bone density tests
  • Diabetes prevention programs
  • Smoking cessation support

Discover many of these services available to you with one of our Twentyeight Health's care providers.

Understanding Original Medicare vs. Medicaid

Unlike original Medicare, Medicaid provides broader reproductive health coverage. While Medicare covers many types of contraception, coverage is more limited than Medicaid and private insurance, which generally cover all U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved, -granted or -cleared contraceptive supplies and services without cost sharing.

This distinction matters for disabled individuals of reproductive age who may have Medicare instead of Medicaid.

Breaking Down Barriers to Care

This fact sheet describes how Medicaid covers sexual health services. It follows the World Health Organization's definition of sexual health, which is "the state of physical, emotional, mental and social well-being in relation to sexuality." 

This holistic approach means your services extend beyond treating problems — it's about maintaining overall wellbeing for all communities:

  • For Underserved Communities: Low income doesn't mean low quality. Medicaid ensures equal access to effective methods of care, regardless of zip code or bank account.

  • For Young Adults: Navigating adult healthcare? Medicaid provides comprehensive contraceptive services as you make important life decisions.

  • For Growing Families: Extended postpartum coverage supports low income parents when they need it most.

How to Make the Most Of Your Medicaid Benefits

Knowledge empowers action. Here's how to maximize your Medicaid benefits:

  1. Verify state-specific coverage: Each state Medicaid program differs
  2. Find trusted providers: Seek those respecting your choices
  3. Schedule preventive care: Don't wait for problems
  4. Ask questions: You deserve understanding
  5. Use telehealth: Convenient, private, covered

Begin your healthcare journey with Twentyeight Health. We navigate Medicaid complexities so you don't have to.

Empowering Communities Through Access

Understanding benefits creates healthier communities. When we access entitled care, we strengthen families and advance healthcare equity.

States have broad flexibility in designing the parameters of telehealth delivery methods to furnish services. Your voice shapes how state Medicaid serves your community.

The bottom line is that your Medicaid coverage exceeds expectations, especially for reproductive health. From preventing unintended pregnancies to comprehensive prenatal care, these services belong to you — at little to no cost.

Don't let another day pass without using deserved healthcare benefits. Whether needing birth control, STI testing, or reproductive health guidance, Twentyeight Health makes accessing Medicaid benefits simple, private, and judgment-free. We’re proud to accept more state Medicaid programs than any other telehealth platform, because we understand your health matters.

Your choices matter. Your life matters.

And with Medicaid, the care you need remains within reach.

FAQs About Medicaid Coverage

Does Medicaid cover sexual health?
Absolutely! Public health priorities ensure comprehensive sexual health coverage, including STI testing, treatment, and preventive care — often with zero out-of-pocket costs.

What is not covered by Medicaid?
While comprehensive, Medicaid typically excludes cosmetic procedures and experimental treatments. However, reproductive health services are considered essential benefits under federal regulations.

Will Medicaid pay for my birth?
Yes! Medicaid ensures safe deliveries for all enrolled pregnant women, covering prenatal care through postpartum support.


This article was reviewed by Twentyeight Health's clinical team. The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content does not establish a provider-patient relationship. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional regarding any medical concerns.

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