Rural areas across the state will now have an easier time accessing essential health services with the launch of the new Virtual Health Center by Planned Parenthood Great Northwest, Hawaii, Alaska, Indiana, Kentucky.
Barriers to in-person visits include taking time off from work, finding child care, long travel times, even a costly flight and hours of travel for those off-island. These can delay or even prevent people from receiving timely healthcare.
Through the VHC, individuals can easily book virtual appointments to connect with a Planned Parenthood provider from home or wherever they are for a range of services that include:
- Birth control and emergency contraception
- Abortion consultations and medication abortion
- Gender-affirming care for anyone 18 years old and up
- STI testing and treating
“The launch of the virtual health center marks a huge step forward in making health care more accessible for people in Hawaii,” said PPGNHAIK CEO Rebecca Gibron. “We understand coming to a physical health center isn’t always possible — or preferred.”
“This telehealth expansion means more people can access the care they need, on their terms. With Hawaii’s unique challenges, from interisland travel to an overburdened health care system, it’s more important than ever to provide flexible, reliable health care options. No matter where you live, Planned Parenthood is here for you,” Gibron said.
Virtual health appointments are available every Monday through March 24. Beginning April 1, availability will include partial days on Tuesdays and Fridays.
Visit the Planned Parenthood website for more information and to connect to a Virtual Health Center in Hawaii.