Family Planning Clinics Can Provide Services at Less Cost but Clearer Federal Policies are Needed

摘要

In fiscal year 1980, the Department of Health and Human Services spent about $375 million for family planning services through several programs. The Department could reduce the costs of such programs and make services less costly and more attractive to clients without compromising quality care by eliminating unnessary medical procedures or tests. The cost of the title X program could be further reduced by more vigorously enforcing fee collections to ensure that only needy persons receive free or subsidized services. Also, the Department needs to resolve conflicts in fee policies between the title X program, which requires fee collections from persons with ability to pay, and the title XX program, which permits free service regardless of client income.