Who can apply for TAKE CHARGE?
Women ages 19-44 who are Louisiana residents, with an income below 200% of the Federal Poverty level, without health insurance.
When can I apply for TAKE CHARGE?
You may apply for the TAKE CHARGE program at any time. Don't wait. TAKE CHARGE has a yearly limit on the number of women who may enroll.
Can a woman have both Medicaid and TAKE CHARGE?
No. Medicaid covers a more comprehensive package of services for family planning. TAKE CHARGE is for women who do not qualify for Medicaid.
Can a woman have private insurance and TAKE CHARGE?
Yes. Applicants can enroll in the TAKE CHARGE program if their private insurance does not cover all family planning services. If the private insurance covers some family planning services, Medicaid will not pay for those covered services. When a Medicaid recipient has private insurance, Medicaid is always the "payer of last resort."
How long is an enrollee eligible for TAKE CHARGE?
Unless the enrollee becomes pregnant or moves out of state, a woman eligible for TAKE CHARGE may keep her coverage for 12 months, even if there are changes in income or household composition. Eligibility for TAKE CHARGE must be re-determined every 12 months.
How did TAKE CHARGE get started?
The State of Louisiana, Department of Health and Hospitals (DHH) applied to the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for a Section 1115 Research and Demonstration Waiver on Sept. 9, 2005 with the intent of reducing unintended pregnancies by providing access to family planning services.
The Family Planning Waiver, named TAKE CHARGE, was approved by CMS June 6, 2006. The waiver will increase the number of women who have access to family planning services and will allow women to "TAKE CHARGE" of their reproductive health adequately. Planned and spaced pregnancies result in healthier moms and babies.
