Family Planning
Every day, our family planning clinics bring improved health to our clients, whether they are seeking an annual exam, birth control, and/or sexually transmitted disease testing and treatment. Please understand these clients have given us permission to tell their stories and the content may be uncomfortable for some to read.
A teenager seeking contraception visited our Family Planning Clinic with her parent. TRI-CAP’s nurse practitioner was able to counsel her on all contraceptive methods and she was able to choose the option that best suited her. During their conversation, the nurse practitioner shared information about what a healthy relationship looks like, how coercion and peer pressure can appear, and the value of abstinence. They also discussed the importance of having parents or other trusted adults to talk to, the risks of smoking and vaping, and how to care for her body. The patient also shared her goals for the future and received encouragement from the nurse practitioner to pursue them.
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TRI-CAP Family Planning served a patient who had previously no-showed twice. When she finally came in for her appointment, she shared that anxiety had kept her away – rooted in a past experience where she felt poorly treated at another medical office after presenting with an unplanned pregnancy.
TRI-CAP’s Family Planning Nurse Practitioner took time to build trust and rapport, ultimately helping the patient choose a birth control method that fit her needs and lifestyle. At the end of the visit, the patient expressed heartfelt thanks to both the nurse practitioner and receptionist for their kindness, clear communication, and for easing the anxiety she felt about seeking care.
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During a patient’s comprehensive annual exam, TRI-CAP’s Family Planning Health Practitioner identified a lump in a patient’s breast that the patient was not aware of. The patient was referred for more extensive testing. Regular clinical exams, self-exams, and early detection through regular screening mammography, combined with awareness and education, plays a significant role in empowering patients to actively participate in their breast health care and improving prognosis for patients with breast health concerns.
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A patient with three small children and no health resources came into TRI-CAP’s Family Planning Clinic to learn about birth control options. The medical staff provided a health screening for the patient and helped her to get the birth control method that was best for her. A referral was also made to TRI-CAP’s Healthcare Resource Navigator with a goal for the patient to be able to obtain health insurance.
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A female patient recently visited the TRI-CAP Family Planning Clinic indicating years of pelvic pain. Upon examination, what appeared to be advanced cervical cancer and two breast masses were noted. Within the hour, the patient was being seen by a specialist for biopsies and had a referral to a Gynecology Oncologist by the end of the day.
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A woman that came in for an evaluation at one of TRI-CAP’s Family Planning Clinics had been having issues for about five months. She explained that she had seen multiple medical providers and was given several different rounds of antibiotics and yet she was feeling worse. During a physical exam, TRI-CAP’s Family Planning Dr. Sherer found a retained tampon lodged deep within. The tampon was removed and Dr. Sherer treated her aggressively with intramuscular antibiotics as well as a two week course of two different oral antibiotics. Dr. Sherer is certain the only reason she did not succumb to Toxic Shock Syndrome is because of those five previous rounds of antibiotics. After following up with this woman one week later into the antibiotics, she stated she was amazed at how good she felt and she realized how truly ill she was. This woman’s global body rash cleared, her abdominal pain was resolved, and her mental clouding was gone. She could actually think clearly now! TRI-CAP’s Family Planning Dr. Sherer felt so blessed to be able to care for this woman and find the root of the problem and couldn’t emphasize enough how lucky she was to be alive!
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There has been an overwhelming response of gratitude from our clients since we have resumed giving Depo Provera injections in the foyer of our clinic. There has been so much anxiety and stress with this pandemic that the clients have been overjoyed that getting their birth control injection was one less thing they had to worry about. (June 2020)
A woman came to TRI-CAP seeking birth control. After discussion of her contraceptive needs, the TRI-CAP Family Planning Clinic staff were able to assist her with her desired method of contraception. She said that she was most interested in a long-acting method that would safely and effectively provide birth control, but she was afraid that she would not be able to afford it. With our sliding fee scale, we were able to present all methods of contraception to her for consideration and get her the method that best fit her lifestyle and future plans at a price she could easily afford. Not only were we able to assist her with birth control but we were able to address her wellness needs including a blood pressure check, a gynecologic exam, and a pap smear screening for cervical cancer. After she finished at the clinic she was referred to TRI-CAP Healthcare Navigation services to obtain health insurance for herself and her family.
A woman came to one of our clinics complaining of vaginal odor. Dr. Rachelle Sherer conducted the physical exam for this woman and discovered she had cervical cancer. Dr. Rachelle was able to refer her immediately to a specialist physician for treatment.
In early July 2019, a woman called us one afternoon complaining of not feeling well and having a specific reproductive system concern. This patient was uninsured with little income and had not seen a doctor in three years. TRI-CAP Family Planning was able to see her the very next morning. If TRI-CAP hadn’t seen her that morning, she likely would have died before being able to celebrate July 4th! During the routine physical exam, Dr. Rachelle found the patient had the beginnings of toxic shock syndrome due to a feminine hygiene product that had not been removed for almost two weeks. With help from our Registered Nurse and Office Coordinator, Dr. Rachelle was able to clean the infected area, give her an antibiotic injection, and prescribe oral antibiotics. There were many hugs and tears as the woman realized how close to death she was!
In both these cases, the women were overdue for a pap smear but couldn’t afford to go to an OB/GYN. Everyone deserves quality healthcare at a price they can afford! Men and women of child bearing age from any household income level are welcome in our clinics. TRI-CAP Family Planning uses a sliding scale fee and accepts all forms of health insurance. Many of our clients are zero pay due to their inability to pay. In these instances, our grant funds help pay for these services, plus our federally certified healthcare navigators will help anyone obtain an affordable health insurance policy.
Healthy Families
Healthy Families Program services are available in all 92 Indiana counties and in nearly every state across the United States. When one Spencer County family moved to a state that does not offer the Healthy Families Program, they faced the possibility of losing access to similar support services.
Through the diligent research of their Healthy Families Support Specialist, the family was able to transfer to a very similar program in a neighboring state. The family reported that they genuinely appreciated the research and assistance provided, which enabled them to continue receiving similar services in their new home.
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Regular developmental screenings are essential in identifying early needs and connecting infants to appropriate support services. Through the guidance and referrals provided by a TRI-CAP Healthy Families Support Specialist, one infant was able to access targeted interventions to address developmental challenges.
With consistent support and recommended activities, the child is now making progress toward key developmental milestones. This success highlights the importance of early identification and proactive family support in promoting healthy child development.
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TRI-CAP Healthy Families’ support, educational information, and resources provided by their Family Support Specialist, have been instrumental in helping two new parents improve their health practices and discontinue unhealthy habits. Both parents have successfully quit vaping and are proud of this accomplishment.
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TRI-CAP Healthy Families provides essential education and support to parents experiencing symptoms of perinatal depression. Through consistent guidance and encouragement, one client family was empowered to take an important first step by reaching out to their healthcare provider for evaluation and appropriate intervention.
With this support, the parent was able to access needed care, leading to improved well-being for both parent and child. This success reflects the program’s role in helping families overcome barriers, build confidence, and move forward with renewed hope.
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A client enrolled in the TRI-CAP Healthy Families program shared their deep appreciation for the consistent and compassionate support they received during an especially challenging time. Following their baby’s diagnosis with a rare and serious medical condition, the family faced uncertainty and emotional strain as they navigated complex healthcare needs.
With guidance and coaching from their Family Support Specialist, the parents have begun to build confidence in their ability to effectively communicate with medical providers and advocate for their child’s specialized care. Through ongoing support, they are developing practical skills to ensure their baby’s unique and vital needs are clearly understood and met.
This experience highlights the critical role of dedicated, relationship-based support in empowering families to overcome adversity. The TRI-CAP Healthy Families program continues to make a meaningful impact by equipping parents with the tools, knowledge, and confidence needed to support their children’s health and well-being.
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After years of working toward the goal of homeownership, one family achieved their dream of purchasing a home. This accomplishment was made possible in large part through the referrals, resources, and guidance provided by their Healthy Families Support Specialist. TRI-CAP’s home visitor supported the family throughout the entire process such as offering assistance with budgeting, identifying a trusted mortgage provider, securing loan approval, and completing the final closing paperwork.
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Thanks to referrals and resources provided by their Healthy Families Support Specialist, a prenatal family was able to prepare and gather safe sleep items before the birth of their baby.
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After lack of follow-through from the child’s medical provider, a TRI-CAP Healthy Families client expressed gratitude to their Family Support Specialist for her efforts at getting a much more thorough evaluation of their baby’s developmental issues. The family is glad to finally be able to begin therapies for their child.
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Thanks to community resource referrals from TRI-CAP’s Healthy Families Support Specialist, a client family was able to keep heat and electricity for their home upon finding help in covering a past due bill.
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While TRI-CAP Healthy Families home visiting staff cannot diagnose autism, their services play a crucial role in helping families recognize early signs and connect with appropriate therapy services for further support.
One young autistic client has made significant progress after being linked to additional local services through the assistance of their Healthy Families Support Specialist.
The parent expressed deep gratitude, noting that the home visitor’s coordination and support during home visits have been essential in reinforcing the therapies. The parent shared that they are learning a great deal and for the first time feel a renewed sense of hope as they discover ways to better support their child.
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TRI-CAP Healthy Families was able to help a family navigate change of custody without interruption in their Healthy Families Program services. The family and children were thankful to have their TRI-CAP Family Support Specialist by their side throughout the turmoil.
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A family expressed their gratitude to one of TRI-CAP’s Family Support Specialist for her professional support and tenacity in advocating for their children while the family navigated a change of custody. TRI-CAP’s Family Support Specialist was able to provide support services seamlessly through many stressful unknowns to help bring a sense of stability and comfort to the child and family.
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TRI-CAP Healthy Families is a great source of comfort and dependability during times of stress for many families. One Healthy Families Support Specialist was able to assist a parent as they made a difficult decision regarding the health and safety of themselves and their baby. Healthy Families was there with the parent every step of the way and able to continue services to the family in their new residence.
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A couple participating in TRI-CAP’s Healthy Families Program was honored for their participation in the Special Olympics. Thanks to the support and encouragement from their Family Support Specialist, this couple continues to strive, grow, and develop as parents and as productive members of their community!
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A first-time parent participant with the TRI-CAP Healthy Families Program recently expressed gratitude to their Family Support Specialist for her help and encouragement. The new mom was able to celebrate six successful months of exclusive breastfeeding; no small feat considering numerous obstacles along the way.
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A dedicated and tech-savvy TRI-CAP Family Support Specialist was able to successfully use an interpretation app to continue providing valuable Healthy Families Program services to multi-lingual families.
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Faced with housing challenges, a client’s family in TRI-CAP’s Healthy Families Program worked with their Family Support Specialist who shared housing resources and referrals. The client’s family found affordable housing that offered their growing family more living space as well as greater access to nearby grocery stores and community transportation.
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Healthy Families was able to help a client-parent in Pike County overcome significant barriers to receiving services for post-partum depression. Thanks to the professional observation, administration of a post-partum depression scale, genuine care, and follow-up by their Family Support Specialist, the parent was able to connect with a mental health provider to begin services enabling them to be the best parent they can be.
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After moving to the area, one Healthy Families client expressed frustration and fear regarding finding medical providers for her baby and herself. Their Healthy Families Support Specialist shared current community resource referrals and guidance. The client was able to find a medical provider for her baby and have a post-partum checkup at a reduced cost at the TRI-CAP Family Planning Clinic.
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A family participating in TRI-CAP’s Healthy Families Program was having challenges finding resources to learn about gaining U.S. citizenship. The Healthy Families Program Support Specialist connected the family with an attorney that will be able to answer questions and assist with the citizenship process.
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A Healthy Families Program participant recently expressed gratitude for the support and assistance provided to the family by their Healthy Families Support Specialist. The family’s special needs child would need support to continue therapies with their local school corporation. Not knowing who to contact, the Healthy Families Support Specialist helped the family make the proper connections with the school corporation. The parent was relieved and thankful that Healthy Families was there to help advocate for their child and family.
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A parent in the Healthy Families Program was concerned about being behind on vaccinations for their child. With uncertainty about in-person appointments at their local health department due to the pandemic, the child fell further behind on needed vaccinations. During a home visit, the Healthy Families Support Specialist shared updated information about health department appointment options and the parent was able to help their child get caught up on their vaccinations.
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A Healthy Families parent found out that their baby needed medical equipment to assist in correcting a minor birth defect. This family’s TRI-CAP Healthy Families Home Visitor discussed with them tips for helping their baby to adjust to the medical equipment to help make the transition as easy as possible. The parents made sure to take their baby to all check-ups and work with their baby at home per the doctor’s orders. After just a few months, the baby was able to successfully graduate from the medical equipment and no longer required intervention!
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TRI-CAP’s Healthy Families Program was so liked and appreciated by one family that they decided to transfer from another county/agency to re-enroll for the program with the birth of their youngest child. They wanted their baby to be provided with the same supports from birth like the rest of their children had benefited from with TRI-CAP’s Healthy Families Program. The parents expressed gratitude toward the Healthy Families Program and was excited for another one of their children to be part of the program.
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TRI-CAP Healthy Families was recently able to donate clothing to a client family who was struggling to make ends meet. The client-parent had a new job but was unable to afford appropriate clothing. TRI-CAP’s Healthy Families Support Specialist was happy to help fulfill the family’s need!
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TRI-CAP’s Healthy Families staff completed the “Great Beginnings Start Before Birth” training presented by Healthy Families America. This training is based on best practice standards, with a special emphasis on the psycho-social issues facing expectant parents, and the social-emotional development needs babies have even before they are born. This training also covered the fourth trimester which is an enormously important time period for bonding between baby and family after baby’s birth. TRI-CAP’s Healthy Families staff received further education on how to help parents enhance prenatal bonding, stimulate brain development, and reduce stress, thereby increasing healthy mother/baby birth outcomes. The Healthy Families staff is excited to be able to enrich and positively impact families that are pre and post-natal with this important training!
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TRI-CAP’s Healthy Families Program had a family that was struggling to find extra finances in their budget to purchase clothes and other essential items for their children. With the help from one of TRI-CAP’s Healthy Families Support Specialist, the family was able to get several new outfits for all of their children through a church clothing donation program.
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A family receiving services through TRI-CAP’s Healthy Families Program was experiencing a big struggle to provide daycare for their child. This struggle hindered one of the parent’s ability to finish their studies in school. One of TRI-CAP’s Healthy Families Support Specialist provided them with referrals which helped them successfully apply for daycare vouchers. Their child is now in a safe and nurturing daycare and the parent was able to finish their education.