Planned Parenthood defunding bill jeopardizes health care for 15,000

Underserved communities, low-income women and men most at risk

(Indianapolis) – As the U.S. Senate considers a measure to strip Planned Parenthood health centers nationwide of government funding, Planned Parenthood of Indiana and Kentucky (PPINK) highlighted the positive impact that its health centers have on the health of Hoosiers and Kentuckians.

“Patients at eight PPINK health centers—six in Indiana, two in Kentucky—benefit from federal family planning funds,” said Betty Cockrum, President and CEO of PPINK. “Combined, those health centers saw 15,244 patients last year and distributed nearly 75,000 contraceptives. In Indiana, one-third of all patients who benefit from Title X family planning services are Planned Parenthood patients.

“In Scott County, Ind., we’ve seen firsthand what can happen when federally funded health centers close. A Planned Parenthood in Scottsburg closed in 2013, leaving the county without a source for HIV testing and education. Two years later, the county is in the midst of an unprecedented HIV epidemic. Federal funding is critical to maintain a public health infrastructure.

“Banning federal funding for Planned Parenthood would have a devastating impact on women, men and families—especially those in medically underserved communities and with low incomes —for preventive care, including Pap tests, breast and testicular cancer screenings, birth control, STD testing and treatment, and annual wellness exams.

“We encourage lawmakers to focus on measures that will protect—not jeopardize—preventive health care for their constituents.”

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Planned Parenthood of Indiana and Kentucky (PPINK) provides high-quality health care to nearly 67,000 men and women each year at our health centers across two states. Our centers are staffed by skilled clinicians and highly trained health care professionals. 93% of our nonprofit’s services are preventive in nature and include Pap tests, breast and testicular cancer screenings, birth control, STD testing and treatment, and annual wellness exams. Through the Sara and Albert Reuben Partners in Health Education initiative, PPINK also provides sexuality and reproductive health education programs, equipping people to make responsible decisions so that families thrive in Indiana and Kentucky. 

PPINK’s doors are open to all who need care and we provide our services in a confidential, compassionate and non-judgmental manner. We accept Medicaid and insurance. Learn more at www.ppink.org.