Implant (Nexplanon)

If you are an active-duty member of the U.S. military, here’s some great news: you have access to a wide range of birth control methods covered under your TRICARE plan. The less great news: not all methods are offered at every military treatment facility (MTF), especially during deployment. That’s why even if you’re not sure you’ll need birth control, it’s a good idea to look into your options before you deploy—especially if you’re going overseas. We’ve laid out some tips and questions to think about so you can make an informed decision.

If you have health insurance—whether it’s from work, school, your parents, the ACA marketplace, or Medicaid—chances are good that you’ll be able to get an implant with no out-of-pocket cost.

If you don’t have insurance or if you’re on a plan that doesn’t cover birth control, the implant can cost up to $1,300, plus any additional costs for insertion. Depending on your income, you may be able to go to a low-cost clinic to get the implant at a reduced cost. Check with your local family planning clinics to find out if they offer free or low-cost implants (many do).

If you have health insurance—whether it’s through your parents, school, job, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace, or Medicaid—chances are good that you’ll be able to get an implant with no out-of-pocket cost.

If you don’t have health insurance or have a plan that doesn’t cover birth control, the up-front cost of an implant can be high, but because the implant can last for five years even if you pay full price upfront, it ends up being pretty cheap over time.

If those aren’t options for you, the manufacturers of the implant offer discounts and you can also check with the family planning clinics around you and find out if they offer discounts or payment plans for the implant.