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How to Schedule an Appointment for Birth Control at a Title X Clinic

by | Aug 16, 2019 | Birth Control

By Eleanor Grano, Community Outreach and Youth Engagement Coordinator at Jane’s Due Process and Paige Alexandria, a volunteer Advocate at Jane’s Due Process

 

Title X (pronounced Title Ten) is a federal grant program that allows clinics to offer low-cost family planning services in the United States. In Texas, clinics that receive Title X funding are allowed to provide confidential family planning services, like birth control, to teens who cannot involve a parent or legal guardian. 

During an appointment at a Title X clinic, teens can talk to a doctor about birth control, take a pregnancy test, discuss pregnancy options (except abortion), get screened for certain cancers, get tested and treated for STIs (except HPV), and learn about preconception health services.  

You can find your nearest Title X clinic here.

How much will it cost, and what do I need to bring?

For most teens, getting care at a Title X clinic is free. You may be asked to bring proof of income to your appointment, which is how a clinic decides if you qualify for free services or care at a reduced cost. However, you cannot be refused services at a Title X clinic if you are unable to pay or show proof of income. 

You will also be asked to bring a valid form of identification (ID). This can be a driver’s license or school ID. However, if you do not have an ID that is okay too! You cannot be refused services at a Title X clinic if you cannot provide identification. 

What if I am undocumented?

Anyone can go to a Title X clinic regardless of their immigration status. U.S. Citizenship is not required. Additionally, seeking care at a Title X clinic is not considered a public benefit. This means that going to a Title X clinic will not affect your ability to apply for U.S. permanent residency in the future. 

What do I need to say when I call a Title X clinic?

When you call a Title X clinic, ask the individual who answers the phone that you want to speak to the scheduler. When you get transferred to the scheduler say to them: “I want to make a confidential appointment for [insert the reason you are needing a visit], I don’t have money to pay, and I don’t want my parents to know.” 

What will the Title X clinic staff ask me when I call?

During your call, you will be asked some basic information about yourself. This includes: your name, date of birth, a safe phone number to contact you, a mailing address, and if you have insurance. You may also be asked some other demographic questions.

You will also be screened for Title X eligibility and will be asked for your individual income. If you’re not working, you can say $0. No proof of income is required. 

If you do not feel safe disclosing your home address, you can provide the address of a supportive friend or family member. If you decide to use a parent or legal guardian’s mailing address, tell the clinic staff to not send any mail to the residence.  

If you know what type of birth control that you are interested in, it’s important to mention this when you are making your appointment! Some clinics may need to order your preferred method before your appointment. Especially, if you’re interested in long-term options like an IUD or implant (aka Nexplanon). 

What happens if I don’t know what type of birth control I am wanting?

If you don’t know what type you are wanting, that is okay! You will be able to talk about the different methods with a doctor at your appointment. However, it can be helpful to begin researching your options. These options include: 

The IUD
The Implant 
The Shot 
The Patch
The Pill
Internal Condom
Sterilization 
Condom
The Ring
Diaphragm
Sponge
Fertility Awareness
Spermicide
Cervical Cap
Emergency Contraception
Withdrawal 

When deciding on what type of birth control to get, it’s important to think about how easy it is for you to be able to get to your nearest Title X clinic for refills, follow-up visits, or LARC removal. The reason for this is:

  • If you decide to get a prescription for the pill, you may need to return to the clinic every month for a new supply.
  • Some clinics do separate in-person eligibility screenings and birth control appointment. Ask the clinic that is closest to you if you will be able to get the type of birth control you are wanting during your appointment, or if you will need to come back.

What happens if the Title X clinic tells me that I need parental consent to get birth control and refuses to schedule an appointment? 

Teens cannot be refused service at a Title X clinic! If you are refused an appointment, the next step is to write down the name of the person you are speaking to on the phone, the reason why they are denying you an appointment, and then call or text our 24/7 hotline at 866-999-5263. Jane’s Due Process will follow up with the Title X clinic refusing to schedule you an appointment and will work to ensure that you are able to access the healthcare that you deserve!

 

If you have concerns about your sexual and reproductive health, our volunteer advocates are available 24/7 at 866-999-5263 and by text 8am-11pm CT to support you. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you need help accessing contraception, STI testing & treatment, or abortion in Texas.