Clinic FAQs
What is Options Clinic? What does Options Clinic do?
Options Clinic is a private non-profit 501(c) (3) corporation that provides reproductive health care
services and education. For more information, go to
Our Services.
Do you have to be a certain age to receive services at Options Clinic?
You do not need to be a certain age to receive services at Options Clinic. Options Clinic serves all people regardless of age, sex, income, marital status, race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, and gender identity. If you are a teenager, Options Clinic staff will discuss with you the importance of talking with a parent or caring adult about your situation.
Will I be charged for services I receive at Options Clinic?
When you become a client at Options Clinic, a Financial Liaison will assess your financial situation. Once assessed, you are placed on a sliding fee scale, which means you are charged for your services based on Federal Poverty Guidelines and your ability to pay.
For information on our fee levels, go to Our Clients.
Will Options Clinic bill to my insurance?
Yes, Options Clinic will bill to your insurance, if you want. In order to do so, we need you to bring in your insurance card or a copy of your insurance card. You are responsible for any unpaid portion of your
charges.
How do I know if I am eligible for a program that will cover the cost of my services?
If you are interested in enrolling in a state subsidized health care program that will cover the cost of
your services at Options Clinic, our Financial Liaisons can assist you with figuring out your eligibility and the application process prior to your appointment. You can also review programs and eligibility requirements by going to Our Clients.
Can I still come to Options Clinic if I have an outstanding balance?
If you have an outstanding balance and are in need of services, you may still come to Options Clinic. We
simply ask that you pay what you can, when you can. We consider your need for contraceptive supplies
and reproductive health care services essential to your well-being.
Can I still come to Options Clinic if I cannot pay?
Options Clinic does not refuse services to anyone due to an inability to pay. However, we ask that you
pay what you can, when you can. Making payments on your account allows us to stay open and
continue to provide needed services to people in our communities.
What are the hours of Options Clinic?
For clinic locations and hours, go to Our Clinics.
Is Options Clinic open on weekends?
Currently, Options Clinic is not open on weekends.
Does Options Clinic accept walk-ins?
Yes, Options Clinic will accept walk-ins at the La Crosse clinic only, schedule permitting. However, it is always best if you can call ahead and schedule an appointment.
How long does it take to get an appointment at Options Clinic?
You can usually get an appointment at Options Clinic within a few days.
If I go to an outreach clinic (Sparta, Prairie du Chien, Richland Center), do I have to have an
appointment?
Yes, all outreach clinics are run by appointment only.
Do you provide services for males?
Yes, males can receive services at Options Clinic. We offer condoms, testing and treatment for sexually
transmitted diseases, and instruction on self testicular exams, as well as guidance on general wellness.
Who provides your services?
For providers, go to Staff.
What is my client number? Why do I have to have my client number?
Your client number is given to you at the time you become a client of Options Clinic. It is our way of
identifying you in our system. You must have your client number for all communication with Options
Clinic staff regarding your personal health information. This allows us to keep your information
confidential and secure.
What do I do if I have lost my client number?
If you have lost your client number, you can go to Options Clinic with a photo ID and get a new card with your client number.
How is Options Clinic funded?
Options Clinic is funded in part through grants (go to About Us). However, we receive a larger portion of our operating funds from client payments, insurance payments, Medicaid payments, and client
donations.
Does Options Clinic provide abortion services?
No, Options Clinic does not provide abortion services. Options Clinic supports a woman’s right to choose when and if she has children. All-options, client-focused pregnancy counseling is offered with our pregnancy testing service. Clients can receive information on prenatal care, parenting resources, and financial support resources; adoption services; and abortion services.
Does Options Clinic provide mammograms?
No, Options Clinic does not provide mammograms. Wisconsin Well Woman Program covers mammogram services at either Gundersen Lutheran or Mayo Clinic Health System.
For more information on this program and to see if you are eligible, go to:
https://www.forwardhealth.wi.gov/WIPortal/Tab/42/icscontent/provider/wwwp/index.htm.spage
Does Options Clinic provide prenatal care?
No, Options Clinic does not provide prenatal care.
For information on prenatal care programs, go to:
Pregnancy Resources: A Client-Centered Guide to Pregnancy Counseling (page 8)
What does a pap test for?
The Pap test (or Pap smear) looks for precancers, cell changes on the cervix that might become cervical cancer if they are not treated appropriately.
How often do I need a pap?
Women are advised to get their first test at age 21. Most women 21 to 30 should have a Pap test once every two years. Women 30 and older who've had three consecutive negative tests and no abnormal history need to be re-screened only once every three years.