Paragard

Indicated For

contraception

About This Medication

# ParaGard Patient Assistance Program Patient Guide: How to Get Paragard (copper IUD T 380A) at Low or No Cost Paragard is a **hormone-free copper intrauterine device (IUD)** that provides **over 99% effective pregnancy prevention for up to 10 years**, making it a long-term, reversible birth control option for women of reproductive age.[2][5] The **ParaGard Patient Assistance Program (PAP)**, offered by **CooperSurgical**, provides **free Paragard units** to eligible **uninsured, low-income patients** whose household income is at or below **200% of the HHS Poverty Guidelines**.[3] ## About Paragard: A Reliable, Hormone-Free Birth Control Option **Paragard (copper IUD T 380A)** is a small, **T-shaped device** made with copper that your healthcare provider inserts into your uterus to prevent pregnancy. Unlike hormonal IUDs, Paragard is **100% hormone-free**, so it won't cause side effects like mood changes, weight gain, or irregular bleeding from hormones. It works by releasing copper ions that are toxic to sperm, stopping fertilization.[2][10] **Key benefits** include: - **Proven efficacy >99%** for up to **10 years** of protection. - **Immediately reversible**—fertility returns right after removal. - **No daily pills or weekly patches**; set it and forget it. - **Safe for breastfeeding** and most women, including those who can't use hormonal methods.[2][5] **Important safety notes**: Paragard isn't for everyone. **Do not use if** you are or might be pregnant, have fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), certain cancers, unexplained bleeding, Wilson's disease, or copper allergy. It carries a risk of PID, especially in the first weeks after insertion. Always discuss risks with your doctor.[9][10] Paragard is **fully covered at no cost** under most insurance plans via the Affordable Care Act (use J-code **J7300** to check).[4] But if you're uninsured or underinsured, the PAP can help. ## Who Qualifies for the ParaGard Patient Assistance Program? This program is for **uninsured or low-income patients** struggling to afford Paragard. You **must** meet **all** these criteria:[3] - Be a **US resident**. - Be **18 years or older**. - Have **no private, third-party, or government insurance** covering Paragard (including **Medicare, Medicaid**, or state programs)—**even partial coverage disqualifies you**. - **Household gross annual income** at or below **200% of HHS Poverty Guidelines** (updated yearly; check current levels at aspe.hhs.gov/poverty-guidelines). - Provide **proof of income, residency, and age**. **Income Eligibility Breakdown** Eligibility is based on **gross household income** (before taxes/deductions) compared to **200% Federal Poverty Level (FPL)**. Here's a table for **2026 guidelines** (estimates; verify current at HHS site as they adjust for inflation and location—lower in Alaska/Hawaii): | Household Size | 100% FPL (Annual) | 200% FPL Limit (Eligible Up To) | |----------------|-------------------|--------------------------------| | 1 (Individual) | $15,060 | **$30,120** | | 2 (Couple) | $20,440 | **$40,880** | | 3 | $25,820 | **$51,640** | | 4 | $31,200 | **$62,400** | | +1 per member | +$5,380 | **+$10,760** | *Notes*: Include all household members' income. **Proof required**: Prior year **Form 1040/1040EZ** + recent pay stubs/W-2s.[3] Program can change or end anytime. ## Insurance Requirements: Uninsured Only The PAP is strictly for **uninsured patients**. **No coverage** from any source—including **Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance, or state aid**—even if it only partially covers Paragard. **No claims** can be submitted to insurers for PAP-provided units. If insured, use **Paragard Access Center** (1-877-PARAGARD) for billing help or check ACA coverage (often $0 out-of-pocket).[1][3][4][6] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Talk to your healthcare provider**: They must complete and sign the **Program Qualification Form**. Discuss if Paragard is right for you and get a prescription.[3] 2. **Gather required documents**: - **Proof of residency** (utility bill, lease). - **Proof of age** (driver's license, birth certificate). - **Proof of income** (1040/1040EZ + recent pay stubs for all household adults).[3] 3. **Complete the form**: Patient signs too. Your doctor submits it **by mail** (exact address on form; contact CooperSurgical or check paragard.com for latest).[1][3] 4. **Submit**: Mail everything together. No online/phone option listed.[3] 5. **Wait for approval**: If approved, **free Paragard ships to your doctor's office** (not home).[1][3] **Tip**: Call **1-877-PARAGARD (727-2427)** for forms, questions, or Access Center support.[6][8] ## Timeline and Delivery **Processing time**: Not specified—expect **2-6 weeks** based on similar programs (call to confirm). Once approved, Paragard **ships directly to your physician's office** via specialty pharmacy. Schedule insertion promptly. Unit **cannot be sold, returned, or traded**.[1][3] ## What If You're Denied or Don't Qualify? Alternatives - **Income too high**: Explore **insurance** (ACA often covers fully) or **self-pay options** like **PARAGARD Patient Direct™**.[1][4] - **Have insurance**: Use **PARAGARD Specialty Pharmacy** for co-pay help/billing.[1][8] - **Other birth controls**: Hormonal IUDs (Mirena, Kyleena), implants, pills (many PAPs). No biosimilars for Paragard.[4] - **Reapply**: Fix issues (e.g., better income proof) and resubmit. - **State programs**: Check local clinics for low-cost IUDs. **Contact Access Center** at 1-877-PARAGARD for personalized help.[6] ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and based on available program details as of 2026. **CooperSurgical reserves the right to modify, limit, or end the program anytime without notice**.[3] Eligibility not guaranteed. **Consult your doctor** for medical advice—Paragard has risks like PID, perforation, expulsion. Not FDA-approved promotion. Verify current guidelines at official sources. Word count: 1028.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026