Birth Control, Health Care
We know that even during a health emergency, people still need birth control, abortion care, and other sexual and reproductive health services. And that it may be care is more difficult to access in times like these.
As we all think about how to mitigate the effects of COVID-19, the new coronavirus, Maine Family Planning is doing everything it can to ensure continued access to critical care. At this time, we are seeing patients as usual, with adjusted protocols and procedures to keep both patients and providers safe. Call (207) 922-3222 if you have questions about an upcoming appointment at an MFP clinic.
For those looking to minimize their trips outside the home at this time, we can still help. At MFP, we offer several important services via telehealth — all you need is a smartphone or laptop.
Our Virtual Visits platform makes it easy to get prescriptions for birth control (including emergency contraception) or treatment of uncomplicated UTIs, right from home. With the MFP app, you “meet” a nurse practitioner using your smartphone or laptop camera. You can get a prescription on the spot, and pick up and pay for it at your local pharmacy.
MFP is also part of TelAbortion Studywhich allows us to send abortion pills by mail to the qualified. A TelAbortion involves all the same steps and procedures as a medication abortion, but you don’t have to go to an abortion clinic. Instead, the abortion education provider conducts a video appointment over the internet using your phone or computer. You get an ultrasound at a medical facility near your home. Abortion pills will be mailed to you. Research published last year found TelAbortion to be safe, effective, efficient, and satisfactory for patients. Call (207) 922-3222 to learn more about this option.
We continue to offer medication abortions at all 18 MFP clinics and aspiration abortions in Augusta.
Pandemics like this can happen specific health effects and sexual and reproductive rights. At MFP, we want to make sure people in Maine communities stay healthy, protected, and confident that they can get the health care they need.
Let’s be there for each other (from the safe distance of 6 feet away, of course) during these unprecedented times.
You should call your doctor or the Maine CDC with specific medical questions for COVID-19. And, you can get answers to questions about case numbers, travel advisories and other general COVID-19 issues anytime by:
- Dialing 211 (or 1-866-811-5695), or
- Text your ZIP code to 898-211o
- Email info@211maine.org
