Not trying to start an abortion fight here. I realize people's minds are generally made up about it. But I do have a question...

I've been listening to the cable news shows as they discuss whether or not the Obama health care plan is going to pass. It is generally agreed that the biggest issue holding it back right now is the language regarding abortions. While it sounds like it doesn't outright pay for them, it does pay insurance premiums for those who can't afford them, and the policy that would be purchased does cover abortion... so the government doesn't directly pay for the abortion, but it provides the funds for the policy that provides them.

From what I understand, this is 'new' because currently, federal funding for abortions in any way, shape, or form is not allowed.

Which brings me to my question...

There are always debates going on about children under the age of consent seeking abortions without their parents knowledge, and whether that should be legal. In some states, it is allowed. Parents do not have to be informed if the girl does not want them to know.

In those cases... who pays for those abortions since it doesn't sound like the feds pay for that procedure, ever?

Well I'm just guessing but I think that clinics have a fund for indigent patients and I bet this might include teens that have one without their parents knowledge and have no means to pay for it.

Most legitimate clinics will NOT do abortions on "teens" without parent consent.
All clinics, abortion or not, have indigent programs for those who can't pay.

I don't know if things have changed, but 15+ years ago, I had to pay for mine w/ either a money order or a cashier's check. The clinic would not deal in cash or credit cards.

If an abortion is deemed medically necessary, then I believe that most insurances including government funded programs (medicare, Indian Health Services, etc.) will cover it/pay for it.

__________________
Mental that one, I'm telling you. ---Ron Weasley, "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets"

I have worked in a place that does abortions. They can be done on patients at the age of 16 and up without parental consent.
Some insurance companies, REGARDLESS of the reason have been known to pay. Other wise, cash, money order or credit card was accepted...

__________________
Be careful what you wish for.....