Undocumented People And the HFS Family Planning Program

Written on May 23, 2023.

Undocumented People And the HFS Family Planning Program

Living as an undocumented person in this country can be scary – especially when you need to access the services that so many Americans take for granted. When it comes to health insurance, it’s estimated that around half of the undocumented population nationally (46%) is uninsured. By comparison, 8% of U.S. citizens are uninsured. And despite expanded coverage options for undocumented people we know that it can still be hard to access care: limited translation support at the health center, jobs with inflexible hours, lack of childcare options, and other factors can prevent people from actually being able to see a doctor.

We have some good news, though. In November 2022, Illinois implemented the HFS Family Planning Program – a new, statewide coverage program for sexual and reproductive healthcare that covers all FDA approved birth control methods, STI testing/treatment, breast and cervical cancer screening, abortion care, and more. You can qualify for the program if you make about $3500 a month or less before taxes ($42,000 a year), are a resident of Illinois, and are not currently on other public insurance, such as Medicaid. If you’re undocumented, you can get immediate, temporary coverage for 31-60 days (depending on when you go into the health center) if you meet all of these criteria. You’ll be able to access all the benefits covered under the program for that 31-60 day period immediately on the day you go into the health center to apply.

You might be telling yourself, okay, that’s great. But how do I access “temporary, immediate coverage”? It’s pretty simple: go to a health center that offers “Family Planning Presumptive Eligibility” (FPPE) and ask to be enrolled in the HFS Family Planning Program. Use ICAN!’s Provider Finder to find a site that offers “FPPE” using the search function. At the health center, they will ask you to “self-attest” to your income and residency. “Self-attesting” means you will just have to tell the health center that you make about $3500 a month or less before taxes, and that you live in Illinois. You will not need to provide any documents or proof for either of those statements. And you will not have to answer any questions about U.S. citizenship–or be at risk of public charge by applying for immediate, temporary coverage. And that’s it! You can now access all the services covered by the program for 1-2 months depending on which day you went into the health center to “self-attest”. And actually you can access temporary coverage twice per calendar year–so, you could apply once at the beginning of the year, and again several months down the road.

Undocumented people can access temporary, immediate coverage under the HFS Family Planning Program. (But not full coverage: if you were to try to fill out an application for full, continuous coverage using the “ABE” portal on the IL.gov website, you would have to respond to a question about your citizenship status.) For now, think of accessing temporary, immediate coverage as a great way to get access to all birth control methods, STI testing, abortion care, and more, without needing to worry about whether you can afford it. You can learn more about the HFS Family Planning Program from ICAN! here and from the official HFS site here. (If you have any questions, you can always contact us.) And make sure to tell your friends, family, and peers about this program! It’s brand new and a lot of people still don’t know about it. In these strange times we live in–any little act of community service means a lot.

Thanks for reading–and take care of yourselves.

By Isha Datta

Telehealth: A Lifeline For Marginalized People

Written on April 25, 2023.

By Michelle Johnson & Isha Datta

If you had told me three or four years ago that I could “go to the doctor” from the comfort of my bed or couch, I would probably have laughed in your face. And then I would have told you that it’s a great idea—because as an overwhelmed twenty-something trying to juggle jobs, debt, health issues, bills, and all the rest… honestly? Cutting out the commute and wait times attached to a doctor’s visit would make it that much more likely that I would actually… go to the doctor.

The thing is, going to the doctor from your couch, or “telehealth”, has actually become super common. When COVID lockdowns and social distancing requirements came down, the healthcare sector spun up telehealth services at high speed and volume to ensure that people could get their blood pressure medication, their prenatal counseling—and yup, even their birth control—from the safety, privacy, and comfort of their own homes. And just like wearing sweatpants to work or seemingly endless Netflix dating shows, telehealth is one of the changes brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic that seems to be here to stay, with more and more people reporting that they prefer telehealth over in-person visits. In fact, telehealth use amongst the general population is 38 times higher now than it was pre-COVID. In conversations with friends, I’ve learned that many of my peers now prefer telehealth for routine appointments—like therapy or counseling—because it makes it that much easier (read: actually possible) to be consistent and fit health needs into hectic day-to-day schedules.

The reality is, though, that while telehealth has become widely popular for the convenience factor—for a lot of people, it’s a lifeline and the only way they can access healthcare. It’s important to name that disability rights activists were fighting for accessible telehealth long before the pandemic forced the health system into ramping up this type of care. That telehealth now benefits everyone is a great example of the “curb cut effect”: in the same way that adding “cuts” to sidewalk curbs for wheelchair access made it easier for everyone to navigate the sidewalk with strollers, bikes, and the like—telehealth appointments, and increased accessibility for disabled people in our health system, benefit everyone and society at large.

Here are some of the reasons that telehealth appointments—and making sure they truly are accessible—are so important:

1. Time. For a lot of people, taking time off work is just not an option. And setting up childcare or elder care can make it even harder to finagle a few hours out of a workday. Setting up a birth control appointment via telehealth completely cuts out commute time to and from the health center—in addition to time spent in a health center’s waiting room. We know that immigrants, women, and people of color disproportionately work jobs that do not give them the flexibility to take time off work. If you just do not have the time to commute to the health center for your birth control, then telehealth might be a great option for you.

2. Privacy concerns. This is particularly relevant for young people or people experiencing or at risk of domestic violence. If you’re worried about privacy and feel like making a trip to the health center may be a risk for you—or if you’re too young to drive or don’t have public transport options—telehealth can give you the option of getting your birth control care from a safe place. The same privacy and confidentiality rules that apply to in-person visits also apply to telehealth. The clinician should state “HIPAA laws require that I conduct the telehealth appointment with no one else present.” If you or someone you know is at risk of domestic violence, help is available. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-7233. Hours: 24/7. Languages: English, Spanish and 200+ through interpretation service.

3. Accessibility. We know that navigating the health care system is hard for everyone—but it’s especially challenging for people with disabilities. And even though the ADA makes sure that all health centers are equipped to provide accessible care to all, sometimes it still isn’t enough. A telehealth visit allows for critical, additional support that people with disabilities often require. For one thing, telehealth appointments can ease the burden and loss of time of having to find an interpreter by allowing a patient to have an already available friend, family member or established interpreter help them with their needs from the comfort of their home. For those who are hearing or vision-impaired, a patient can adjust settings on a mobile device to make it easier to see, hear, and receive a more comprehensive understanding of the information being shared, depending on whether the telehealth appointment is via phone or videoconference. For those who are mobility impaired, accommodations on public transit are often out of order, or are limited to one or two people per bus or train. This makes it difficult or expensive to commute to the health center, even if accommodations are in place at the site itself. Telehealth also widely benefits people with non-apparent disabilities, who are often shamed into forgoing the disability accommodations that exist in many public places. Again, if this is your situation—you can get care through a telehealth appointment. Make sure you let the health center know about your accommodation needs when you set up your appointment.

4. Anxiety about the health center. For some people, particularly people of color, folks identifying as queer/gender-nonconforming, or people with disabilities, a visit to the health center can be triggering or anxiety-inducing—even if you know that you like and trust your doctor and are going in for care that you really, really need. If this sounds like you, first, know you’re not alone. Second, all ICAN! providers are trained in TRUER care: care that is Trauma-informed, Respectful, Unconscious-bias checked, Evidence-based, and Reproductive well-being centered. And third, telehealth could be a great option for you. Again, you can have your visit wherever you feel comfortable taking a call.

5. You live too far away. Sometimes, it’s just that simple. Your one health center is far away, and you know they don’t have the birth control method you want. Again, you’re not alone—19 million women actually live in counties without reasonable access to all birth control methods. If this is you, telehealth is going to drastically increase the options that you have for care. You can even get birth control refills shipped to your door.

To wrap up—telehealth is just part of how we do things now. These ICAN! Quality Hub providers can set you up with a telehealth appointment to get your birth control of choice from the comfort of your own home. And remember—don’t forget to thank the people who fought to make this care accessible for those who need it most.

Authors: Michelle Johnson & Isha Datta

Finding the Right Birth Control for You

Written on March 29, 2023.

Finding the Right Birth Control for You

Did you know that over 90% of women will use at least one type of birth control in their lifetime? Or that 76% of women will use more than one birth control method?

Birth control really is that girl. But whether you’re using birth control to prevent pregnancy, prevent STIs, manage a health condition, or support gender-affirming care—or some combination of all of the above—figuring out which method is right for you can be overwhelming.

What are the health needs you hope to address with birth control?
Are you dealing with endometriosis or PMS that no amount of chocolate will help with?
How does birth control impact your gender identity?

Understanding exactly how each method works can also be… well, a lot.

How often do you have to take it?
Would it be hard or easy for you to use it correctly?
Does it require a doctor’s visit to get started?
What are the possible side effects?
Do you want to continue to get your period?
Do you need a method that no one else will know about?
Are you willing to use a method that has hormones?

No matter what your answers are to these questions, there’s only one person who should have the final say in your decision: YOU. And if you’re confused, don’t worry, we got you.

Here’s the skinny on how each birth control method works.

Hormonal birth control methods

Hormonal birth control methods work by thickening cervical mucus and preventing ovulation.

Pill – There are two types of oral contraceptive pills; the most common pills are combined with both estrogen and progestin and the less common is progestin only. The combined pills can treat many other conditions not related to pregnancy prevention such as heavy or irregular bleeding; they are also protective for uterine and ovarian cancers. The combined pill may cause some nausea or breast tenderness early on. Progestin only pills, sometimes called “mini-pills,” are less common but a great option for someone who can’t use estrogen and wants to take daily pills. They are commonly used by people who are breastfeeding. Progestin only pills may cause irregular bleeding and spotting. Pills must be taken at the same time every day.
Patch – The patch is worn on the skin and changed every week for 3 weeks followed by a week off. The patch has similar benefits and side effects to the combined pills but the active hormones are absorbed through the skin instead of being swallowed.
Ring – A plastic ring worn inside the vagina that is removed once a month, the ring has similar benefits and side effects to the combined pills and the patch but the active hormones are absorbed through the vagina. Some people use the ring continuously to avoid having periods.
Shot – The shot is a progestin only method that is injected into the arm, belly, or bum every three months. It may cause spotting and irregular bleeding but some people may not bleed at all. For some, weight changes (gain or loss) may occur.
Progestin IUD – The IUD is a tiny T-shaped device inserted in the uterus by a skilled provider. It can last from 3-7 years but can be removed anytime sooner. The progestin IUD can cause spotting and irregular bleeding, although some people may eventually not bleed at all. The progestin IUD is also FDA approved for treating heavy bleeding. The IUD is not noticeable to others and doesn’t interfere with tampons or intercourse. The insertion may cause discomfort and cramping. Bonus: it can be effectively used as emergency contraception if inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex.
Implant – This match size plastic rod is inserted in the underside of upper arm by a skilled provider. The implant can last for 4-5 years but can be removed anytime sooner. The implant may cause spotting and irregular bleeding but some people may eventually not bleed at all.

Non-hormonal birth control methods

Non hormonal birth control methods work by preventing sperm from reaching an egg.

Condoms – External condoms are rolled on to an erect penis while internal condoms are inserted into the vagina or anus before sex. Condoms are available without a prescription, and are THE ONLY birth control method that also protects against sexually transmitted infections and HIV.
Cervical cap/diaphragm – This reusable barrier is inserted through the vagina to cover the cervix before sex. It must be used with spermicide to ensure effectiveness.
Vaginal gel – This new product, called Phexxi, is inserted into the vagina via a pre-filled applicator (similar to a tampon) up to 1 hour before sex. It is only effective for up to 1 hour after insertion so you need to use a new applicator every time you have sex.
Copper IUD —The IUD is a tiny T-shaped device inserted in the uterus by a skilled provider. It can last up to 12 years but can be removed anytime sooner. The copper IUD may cause heavier bleeding and stronger cramps. The copper IUD is not noticeable to others and doesn’t interfere with tampons or intercourse. The insertion may cause discomfort and cramping. Bonus: it can be effectively used as emergency contraception if inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex.
Withdrawal – Also known as “pulling out”, this method requires no supplies or hormones and refers to pulling out the penis before ejaculation into the vagina.
Fertility Awareness – This refers to the practice of tracking daily symptoms to identify days to avoid unprotected sex based on body temperature, cervical mucus, and period cycle. This method can be tracked in an app* or on a calendar and requires no supplies or hormones. It is also a very effective way to track ovulation for anyone trying to get pregnant.

* Following the overturning of Roe v. Wade, there is a growing concern that data from fertility tracking apps could be obtained as evidence to support a criminal prosecution in the event of pregnancy termination or loss. Read more here.

Permanent control methods

Permanent methods are nearly 100% effective at preventing pregnancy.

Vasectomy – This is a safe outpatient l procedure with a short recovery time that permanently prevent the patient from causing pregnancy by blocking off the small tubes in the scrotum that carry sperm. Three months post procedure, patients must have their semen checked to make sure the vasectomy is fully effective.
Tubal ligation – This one-time surgical procedure involves cutting or removing the fallopian tubes. The surgery is usually done in a hospital and requires general anesthesia. Recovery time is typically about two weeks.

Emergency contraception

Emergency contraception can be used within 5 days of unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy.

There are two types of pills and two types of IUDs that can be used after unprotected sex. The sooner you use one of these methods, the higher the chance of preventing pregnancy.

Emergency contraception pills (aka “The Morning After Pills”) are available without a prescription and without age restrictions. If you have Medicaid, you can also get it at no cost without a prescription, but you have to ask the pharmacist to “use the standing order for EC”. Another type of pill called (brand name Ella) is more effective for anyone over 155 pounds but requires a prescription.

Both the IUD with progestin (brand name Liletta) or IUD with copper (brand name Paragard) are good options for emergency contraception if you are interested in starting a long-term method.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Emergency contraception pills are NOT the pills used for an abortion. Emergency contraception works by stopping the release of the egg (ovulation) or preventing the egg and sperm from joining, decreasing the chance of a pregnancy.

A note on safe sex

Remember, condoms are the only method that protect against sexually transmitted infections such as herpes, warts, chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, etc. It’s always a good idea to use one alongside the birth control method you select.

Explore your birth control options

Still have questions? You can get more detailed information on each method on our Birth Control Options page or download our Birth Control Options one pager for easy reference (also available in Spanish). You can also take our Birth Control Quiz! It’s a fun, super simple way to narrow down your options.

Find a birth control provider near you

If and when you decide that you want to get birth control, you can find a provider by plugging your zip code into our Provider Finder. Remember, anyone in Illinois who is 12 or older can get birth control on their own. If you have any questions, make sure you ask them at your visit! Doctors, nurses, and other folks at the health center are here to help.

So, take control of your health and get connected to the care you need today—because you deserve to be the best version of you. Period hon.

Photo of a women's march in support of reproductive rights.

Turning our grief and rage into action: what we can do together

Written on January 25, 2023.

Turning Our Grief and Rage Into Action: What We Can Do Together

We emphatically denounce the unjust and devastating decision by the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn the constitutional right to abortion. As an initiative informed by the principles of reproductive justice and led by lifelong advocates for reproductive rights and health equity, ICAN! vows to meet this moment by channeling our grief and rage into tenacity, proactivity, and bold leadership. We renew our commitment to fight for the right of every person to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to become pregnant and parent, and we pledge to center the lived experiences of women with few resources, women of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals who will be most profoundly impacted by state abortion bans.

With millions of women and people who can become pregnant robbed of their right to reproductive autonomy, it is more important than ever that they are able to easily obtain the birth control method of their choice. Know that ICAN! and its partner health centers will not turn anyone away for birth control no matter where they live. Birth control remains safe and legal in all 50 states and abortion remains safe and legal in Illinois.

We have developed the following resources for patients, providers, and policymakers. Please distribute widely!

Your Health Your Rights: a guide for patients accessing reproductive health care in Illinois post-Roe.
Ensuring Access to Birth Control Post-Roe: a guide for healthcare providers.
Policy Priorities to Expand Reproductive Health Access in Illinois: a guide for advocates and policymakers.

We must defend access to reproductive health and work to normalize the full spectrum of sexual and reproductive health care. Thank you for all that you have done and will do to ensure that people accessing health care in Illinois can realize their right to reproductive well-being. We are grateful for your partnership.

In solidarity,

Katie Thiede and Kai Tao, co-founders, ICAN! emphasis>

P.S. Eager to take the next step in expanding access for your patients and community? Join us! ICAN! is building a statewide network of providers committed to tackling barriers to same-day access to all birth control methods at low or no cost. Apply today!

P.P.S. If you haven’t already, please read our Heartland Signal op-ed outlining what we can do in Illinois to live up to our reputation as a beacon for reproductive health care access.

Download This Statement

No Insurance? No Problem!

Written on October 2, 2022.

No insurance? No worries! When it comes to birth control, we’ve got you covered.

With 500,000 people without health insurance coverage for birth control in Illinois, if you’re struggling to figure out how to pay for your birth control, you’re not alone!

Let’s walk through the answers to some common questions to help you understand your insurance options to ensure you can get the birth control method of your choice for low cost or for free!

First things first… What do these insurance terms even mean?!

We know – it’s confusing! Let’s lay out a few of the basics:

Federal poverty level (FPL): A measure to help see if you’re eligible for certain public (aka government) insurance plans like Medicaid based on how much money you make and how many people you live with.
Health insurance: An agreement with a health insurer to pay some or all of your health care costs in exchange for a payment from you each month (aka premium).
Premium: What you pay each month to have an active insurance plan.
Network: The providers and health centers your insurance plan partners with to deliver care. Your insurance should tell you how to search for providers or health centers that accept your insurance (aka “in-network”). Medicaid covers birth control services at 100% whether your provider is in- or out-of-network – that means they’re free to you!
Deductible: What you pay each year before your insurance starts to pay. You do not need to reach your deductible to get coverage for preventive care services like birth control.
Co-payment (aka co-pay): What you pay each visit for the service you receive.

Example: As a single person earning under $1,366 a month (138% FPL), Maria qualifies for and is enrolled in Medicaid health insurance. Even though Maria’s favorite birth control provider is out-of-network and she hasn’t reached her annual deductible of $300, her co-pay is $0 because birth control is a preventive service, and Medicaid allows her to see any provider of her choice for birth control services.

Example: Alex works full-time as a teacher and gets their private health insurance through work. Alex pays a $40/month premium for their health insurance plan. Alex makes an appointment with their in-network gynecologist to get an IUD. With their insurance plan, they will have to pay a $30 co-pay at the visit.

Do I qualify for Illinois Medicaid?

Illinois Medicaid is available to anyone 19-64 earning less than 138% FPL (~ $1,500/month) with U.S. citizenship or on the pathway to U.S. citizenship. If you’re a member of one of Illinois’ Medicaid Managed Care Organizations (Aetna Better Health, Blue Cross Community Health, CountyCare, Meridian of Centene Molina), you already have insurance through Medicaid, including for all FDA-approved birth control methods for free!

I am, or was recently pregnant. Are there health insurance options for me?

Regardless of citizenship or pregnancy outcome (birth, miscarriage, or abortion), anyone recently pregnant earning less than 213% FPL (~$3,000/mo) is eligible for full Medicaid Mother/Baby benefits during pregnancy and up to 12 months post-pregnancy. That means all birth control options are free. Even better, pregnant people are eligible for what’s called Medical Presumptive Eligibility (MPE) – this means you can start using your benefits right away.

What if I don’t qualify for Medicaid?

Beginning December 1st, 2022, if you’re between 138-213% of the federal poverty level (~$1,500-$3,000/month), you qualify for coverage specifically for family planning services, including sexual health education, testing and treatment for STIs and HIV, cervical cancer screening, and all birth control methods.

Anyone 12+ can apply on their own, even if you have other insurance through a parent, partner, or work. This coverage includes Family Planning Presumptive Eligibility (FPPE), which means you can start using it right away while you’re waiting for your application to be reviewed. After your application is reviewed, depending on how much money you make, your household size, and citizenship status, you will either get full Medicaid benefits, family planning benefits, or be referred to the Health Insurance Marketplace to look for other health insurance options that fit within your budget. All Health Insurance Marketplace plans cover all birth control methods so your birth control will be free.

What if I have private insurance?

Private (aka commercial) insurance like Blue Cross Blue Shield or United Healthcare is insurance usually provided by your job. Some employers may not cover birth control for religious reasons.

If you’re not sure if your birth control is covered, call your insurance company.

Some examples of questions to ask:

Does my insurance plan cover all birth control methods?
Will I have to pay anything out of pocket for birth control?
When do I pay?
How will I receive my bill?
How do I know if a provider is in-network?
If I use my parents’ or partner’s insurance for birth control, will they be notified?

What if none of the options above apply to me?

ICAN! health centers never turn someone away due to their ability to pay. Use the ICAN! health center search to find a free or low cost birth control provider near you. When calling to make an appointment, be sure to mention any payment concerns so you can discuss your insurance and payment options.

When it comes to birth control, you always have options. Schedule your appointment today.

Still have questions?

Check out our birth control quiz to find the method that’s right for you; or
Schedule time to speak with an ICAN! expert for more information.

Under 18 and Looking for Birth Control?

Written on October 2, 2022.

Under 18 and Looking for Birth Control?

Do I need a parent or guardian to get birth control?

No! Anyone 12+ can access birth control and STI testing on their own in Illinois. Ask your doctor about your options today!

Where can I find confidential birth control?

ICAN! providers offer confidential, respectful care. Find an ICAN! clinic near you!

If you complete a search and you’re not finding a clinic near you, you can still get birth control. Look for results that say “telehealth available” to select a provider that offers birth control by phone call or video call.

How much will it cost?

In most cases, your birth control should be free!

If you have concerns about payment, share them when scheduling your appointment. If you’re using a parent’s insurance and want your visit to be confidential, be sure to tell the health center when scheduling your appointment.

Do I need a prescription for birth control?

Sometimes! Hormonal birth control like the pill, patch, or ring require a prescription. Some methods like the IUD, implant, or birth control shot require a clinician visit as well.

Condoms and emergency contraception are available over the counter. If you are eligible for Medicaid (or already on Medicaid), they’re also free! Ask a pharmacist for more details.

Speak up for yourself!

EVERYONE has the right to respectful and unbiased reproductive health care!

Ask questions if you’re unsure about the information being shared with you. If your existing health care provider doesn’t have the birth control you want, ask for a referral or find a provider that offers all birth control methods by using our birth control provider search.

Be confident – only YOU know what’s best for YOUR body!

ICAN! Newsletter | 3rd Edition | September 2021

Written on September 25, 2021.

ICAN! Newsletter | 3rd Edition | September 2021

September is Sexual Health Month

And September 26th marks World Contraception Day—an annual global campaign to improve awareness of modern contraception and to enable young people to make informed choices about their sexual and reproductive health. Be sure to follow @ican4all for new content and live discussions with partners like Embrace Sexual Wellness, Free Root Operation, and Calor Chicago all month long!

Learn More

Clinical Update: CDC releases 2021 STI Treatment Guidelines

The updated guidelines include questions adopted from the PATH framework as part of the The Five “P”s: a guide to taking sexual health history. PATH questions discuss reproductive goals and are designed to be inclusive, non-judgmental, and non-stigmatizing. They support equity by centering personal autonomy in conversations about parenting, pregnancy, and sexual health.

ICAN!’s TRUER Care Resource Center includes additional about the PATH framework. PATH questions also serve as the basis for our birth control quiz, which helps patients to identify their contraceptive preferences prior to their appointment with a provider.

Learn More

Policy Update: Gov. Pritzker approves SB 967!

Over the past year, ICAN! has advocated for a model Family Planning State Plan Amendment (SPA) that would significantly expand coverage for contraceptive care for Illinoisans with few resources. On August 24th, Gov. Pritzker approved SB 967, a bill that ensures enactment of a Family Planning SPA which will enable an estimated 70,000 individuals to become eligible for coverage of contraceptive care and screenings related to reproductive well-being. This is a critical step toward ensuring that everyone in Illinois can decide if and when to be pregnant and parent.

We are grateful to the bill’s sponsors—Senator Cristina Castro (D-Elgin) and Representative Latoya Greenwood (D-East St. Louis)—and to our advocacy partners: Planned Parenthood Illinois Action, EverThrive Illinois, Illinois Primary Health Care Association, Ci3 at the University of Chicago, ACOG, and Cook County Health for all their hard work!

Learn more

Metrics that Matter: patient survey

Collecting patient-reported experience metrics (PREM) is essential to measuring contraceptive care quality.
ICAN!’s patient experience survey is based on the NQF-endorsed Patient-Centered Contraceptive Counseling survey (PCCC) and takes less than 1 minute to complete. Please be sure to ask your patients and clients to fill out the survey following their appointment! Their voices matter!

ICAN! Co-founder, Kai Tao, named Fund for New Leadership Fellow

ICAN! is proud to announce that our co-founder, Kai Tao, has been selected to join the Fund for New Leadership’s (FNL) inaugural Fellowship class. With the support of FNL, ICAN! will be able to expand upon our efforts to advance reproductive equity by improving the quality and coverage of contraceptive care in Illinois.

Learn More

ICAN! awarded HRSA “Emerging Issues” Grant

We are excited to announce that ICAN! has been awarded a one-year grant for approximately $250,000 from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The grant is part of HRSA’s 2021 Emerging Issues in Maternal and Child Health Program.

With this grant, ICAN! will build the capacity of community health networks statewide to become Contraceptive Care Quality Hubs (Quality Hubs), delivering high-quality, person-centered contraceptive care within a primary care context.

Introducing…ICAN!’s newest team member!

Jordan Hatcher (she/her), MPH, joins ICAN! as our new Program Director. She brings a wealth of experience supporting family planning and reproductive health initiatives, including her recent work with the United Nations Foundation Family Planning 2020 initiative. Many of you will be meeting Jordan in the coming days and weeks; please join us in welcoming her to the team!

Learn more about the ICAN! team

Sign Up for the ICAN! Newsletter

Stay updated on ICAN!’s partnerships, policy work, and newly developed resources and digital tools.

You are signing up to receive ICAN! emails.
You can change your mind at any time.