Utilization of a Family Planning Program by the Poor Population of a Metropolitan Area

Abstract

The Orleans Parish Family Planning Demonstration Program sought to develop (during the period July 1 1967 to June 30 1970) a system for the delivery of family planning information and services for all indigent families of the metropolitan area and to evaluate the system. Studies showed a marked lack of information concerning reproductive physiology and contraceptive technology an absence of organized planning services designed to meet the needs of patients and the lack of an adequate health delivery system in which family planning could be incorporated. An appropriate system was designed for the delivery of health care. From the family planning programs start on July 1 1967 through June 30 1969 17459 families have become active participants. 85% of the patients who enrolled during this period are continuing. Over 95% of the families are black. By estimate at least 80% acceptance of services has been achieved in the 20-24 year old group of New Orleans black women. Black patients have kept their appointments 6 times as frequently as white patients. Traditionally problems in family planning have been due not to the patients but to the lack of an effective system. The article closes with a discussion among the authors and several other researchers concerning the program family planning and the state of Jamaican family planning (as one participant was a Jamaican doctor). Beasley estimates at least 65 to 75 dollars per patient per year will be necessary to provide adequate family planning in the U.S.