January 31, 2012
Despite grant set-back, California women can continue to count on Planned Parenthood for breast cancer screenings!
UPDATE: February 3 - KOMEN RESTORES BREAST CANCER FUNDS! The treasured relationship between the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation and Planned Parenthood has been challenged this week, and we are now heartened that we can continue to work in partnership toward our shared commitment to breast health for the most underserved women.
You may have heard about the disappointing set back in our grant funding for breast health services, due to the Komen Foundation’s decision to alter their grant protocols after pressure from anti-choice groups. As Planned Parenthood Southeastern Virginia CEO Patrick Hurd said, "Cancer doesn’t care if you’re pro-choice, anti-choice, progressive, conservative. Victims of cancer could care less about people’s politics.” The Komen-funded Planned Parenthood programs have helped thousands of women in rural and underserved communities get breast health education, screenings, and referrals for mammograms. In fact, Planned Parenthood's quality, accessibility and affordability make it a leader in identifying breast cancer early when there is the best chance of successful treatment.
In 2010, California Planned Parenthood affiliates provided over 115,000 breast exams. Nationwide, Planned Parenthood doctors and nurses provide nearly 750,000 breast cancer screenings annually, offering risk assessments, breast exams, breast health information and education, and diagnostic and surgical referrals.
Hear women’s stories – read this “Close to the Heart” story book about women’s experiences with breast health services at Planned Parenthood:
Here in California, during 2011 alone, Planned Parenthood of Orange and San Bernardino Counties’ Komen grant funding helped greatly expand follow-up care, extended breast screening, and diagnostic procedures to 400 Orange County women as well as provided education to nearly 65,000 patients, 100 health care service professionals at partner colleges and programs in the community, and 15 peer educators.
The funds provided by Komen have made it possible for PPOSBC to expand the breadth of education, case management, and diagnostic services made available to Planned Parenthood patients. However, the need for breast health care in Orange County exceeded the grant funding provided by Komen, and Planned Parenthood has used nearly $20,000 of out-of-pocket funds to cover the costs for women with uncompensated breast health care needs – and will continue to do so in the wake of Komen’s national office decision.
Monique’s Story: Watch this video where Monique share's her personal story accessing breast health services.
For the future, Planned Parenthood health centers will continue to be here for local women and will find a way to ensure that all women in need of breast health care will be able to turn to Planned Parenthood.
Interested in taking action?
Are you concerned about your breast health? Check out these resources:
- Breast Exam information – including how to do a self-exam!
- Mammogram information – including info about how often they are recommended.
