Affordable preventive care options available for all California women

All women, regardless of their health insurance coverage, can find affordable preventive care options in California, according to Californians for Patient Care, an independent nonprofit that connects consumers to affordable care. The importance of preventive care for women is being underscored as National Women's Health Week begins on Mother's Day, May 8.

Statistics gathered by The Office on Women's Health shows that, through 2008, California women overwhelmingly sought preventive care. More than 81 percent of California women had received a Pap smear in the preceding three years; 76 percent had received a mammogram and 86 percent of (applicable) women received first trimester prenatal care. Statistics also show that, through 2008, more than 81 percent of California women had health insurance. But changes in the state's economy may have changed these numbers.

"We know that, in the past, women in California have done a good job of getting the preventive care they need," said Carmella Gutierrez, president of Californians for Patient Care. "But the swift changes in the state's economy and the resulting effects on Californians' personal finances may lead many women to believe that they can no longer afford preventive care. Women should know that there are hundreds of healthcare resources in the state that offer women's health services and preventive care for little or no cost."

People can access the MyHealthResource guide by clicking on the blue button at www.calpatientcare.org. After typing in basic search information such as city or county and category of resource, Californians can find a comprehensive list of local healthcare providers that provide primary, dental and mental healthcare services to the uninsured and underinsured, some of which may be offering the recommended immunizations for infants and children.

Along with information on local healthcare service providers, Californians for Patient Care also provides information on chronic disease management, how to shop for health insurance, information on new research studies and links to helpful organizations and websites.

"Some women have a tendency to put their own needs last or make themselves lower priorities than the people they love and care for," said Gutierrez. "But it is important that women understand the many ways in which their own health needs to be monitored through preventive care - through regular gynecological exams, breast cancer screenings and regular check-ups. Being healthy is key to being able to pursue the things that mean the most to you, whether it's taking care of family, working, maintaining friendships or pursuing hobbies -- and preventive care is a big part of being healthy."

Source: Californians for Patient Care