A new study in JAMA Network Open reveals that women with disabilities face significant barriers to contraception due to gaps in Medicare coverage.
Despite covering 1.5 million reproductive-aged disabled women, Medicare does not require full contraceptive coverage, leaving many to struggle with cost.
Women dually enrolled in Medicaid and Medicare use contraception more often, showing that financial barriers limit access.
Disabled women are 32% less likely to use contraceptives than nondisabled peers, and affordability remains a top issue. Permanent contraception is not covered by Medicare, even when medically necessary.
Beyond cost, systemic challenges persist. Women with disabilities often receive less sex education and face physical and institutional barriers in healthcare, including provider assumptions about their sexual activity and inaccessible clinics.
The study analyzed data from over 1.6 million women with disabilities, finding that dual enrollment with Medicaid raised contraceptive use by 35% within a year. This increase was even greater among women with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
Researchers recommend removing all Medicare cost-sharing for contraceptives and expanding coverage to include permanent methods. They also stress the need for disability-inclusive healthcare training and unbiased contraceptive counseling.
Related topics:
