The Klotz Student Health Center will implement a newly state-funded program called FamilyPACT this semester that will provide free family planning and reproductive health clinical services to low-income CSUN students.

“The goal for the new program is to promote optimal reproductive health and reduce unintended pregnancy by lowering the barriers that many low-income men and women face in obtaining family planning services,” said Sharon Aronoff, health educator for the health center.

The FamilyPACT – Planning, Access, Care and Treatment – program is free for students who qualify. Determining eligibility and confirmation is based on information given in a self-report. A student will not be asked for income verification or other documentation to prove eligibility.

Women under the age of 55 and men under the age of 50 are eligible for FamilyPACT if their income is at or below federal income guidelines and they reside in California.

Students are not eligible for FamilyPACT if they are pregnant, have been sterilized, are menopausal or have full-scope Medi-Cal or insurance.

The new program covers many different services at the health center, and includes birth control, emergency contraceptive pills, treatment for sexually transmitted diseases, pregnancy testing, PAP smears, treatment for female urinary tract infections, education and counseling about reproductive health, and referrals for other services.

“The FamilyPACT program helps keep people healthy by maintaining good sexual and reproductive health, and preventing unintended and unwanted pregnancies,” Aronoff said.

Robert Dover, senior kinesiology major, said he has utilized the services at the health center and has no complaints. He said going to the health center is a convenient and efficient way of receiving professional help.

Dover said he has not heard about FamilyPACT and his only concern about the new program is how the health center plans to promoting it.

“I think it’s a good program to have, but will the students be conscious enough to take advantage of the program?” Dover said. “Will they get the word out there so the students know these services are available?”

There is no charge for basic services at the health center for currently enrolled students.University tuition includes a health fee, which pays for the basic services provided. Some additional services require a nominal fee.

Students are advised to schedule appointments for non-urgent care needs in advance. Urgent care and same-day visits are available during clinic hours.

Valencia Bankston can be reached at vbankston97@hotmail.com.