Planned Parenthood offers services for storm victims

Hurricanes Irma and Maria caused many problems, but Planned Parenthood officials hope to ensure that an unnecessary infection or lost birth control aren't among them.

Twenty-two of the state's Planned Parenthood health centers, including the one on Northwest 13th Street, are offering several free services to those affected by Hurricanes Irma or Maria. The offer also extends to those who have come to Florida from Puerto Rico, Planned Parenthood officials said in a news release Friday.

Gainesville's Planned Parenthood office has seen more than 400 patients since the storms, many with problems caused by the storm, including lost birth control and infections caused by the lack of power or plumbing.

The free services, supported by a grant from the JPB Foundation, include a supply of birth control, DEPO shot, patient problem visits, testing and treatment for UTI’s and infections, the release said.

Appointments can be made online at PPSENFL.ORG or by calling Planned Parenthood at 1-800-230-PLAN. Eligibility for discounts will be determined when patients arrive at the health center and fill out a form to confirm hurricane-caused hardship.

Gainesville's Planned Parenthood is closed next week for the holiday, but reopens Tuesday, Nov. 28.