Despite facing unrelenting attacks from state and federal politicians, Planned Parenthood South Texas revealed Thursday that it’s offering new services across its five San Antonio health centers and expanding hours for two.
As part of the expansion, the clinics are introducing self-HPV testing for cervical cancer screening, same-day “peace of mind” testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea and providing more-affordable birth control pills starting at $8 per month for those who qualify, officials with the sexual and reproductive healthcare provider said.
In addition, Planed Parenthood South Texas’ location at 2140 Babcock Road will now operate 8 a.m.-noon every Saturday in addition to its regular hours, while the 920 San Pedro Ave. location will open twice a month with those same Saturday hours.
Officials with the nonprofit health provider said the expansion comes as patients face growing barriers to care. Lone Star State residents regularly deal with obstacles such as busy work schedules, limited transportation and difficulty taking time off as they look after their health.
“Everyone deserves access to preventive health care that is respectful, affordable and easy to access,” Planned Parenthood South Texas CEO Laura Terrill said in a statement. “Many patients delay cervical cancer screenings because they are nervous about pelvic exams or struggle to find time for appointments. By offering self-HPV testing that allows patients to screen for cervical cancer without a pelvic exam, along with same-day STI testing and expanded clinic hours, we are making it easier for people to prioritize their health and get the preventive care they need.”
Hispanic women are 40% more likely to be diagnosed with cervical cancer than non-Hispanic white women and are less likely to be screened, according to data from U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and the American Cancer Society shared by Planned Parenthood officials. The World Health Organization notes that regular screening can reduce cervical cancer mortality by 80%.
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