Opinion - Letters to the Editor

POSTED: Thursday, Jun. 18, 2009

Reproductive health must be included in reform

In these increasingly hard economic times, it is more important than ever to support our government's focus on national health care reform, a systemic change that must include reproductive and women's health.

As a college student wanting to make independent, responsible choices regarding my sexual health, it is crucial for health care to cover services such as Pap tests, pelvic exams and counseling and treatment for sexually transmitted infections. In a society where not having access to comprehensive health care can mean unprotected sex or risk of infection, it is important to recognize women's health as a pivotal issue which can increase sexual health awareness while decreasing the rate of unintended pregnancies and STIs.

Please tell Congressman Rick Larsen that any expansion of insurance coverage must include direct, confidential access to the reproductive health care provider of the patient's choice.

Laura Hughes

Bellingham