Family Planning Client Story

Lawrence hairstylist raves about staff, affordable services

By Karrey Britt | Communications Coordinator

For the past 10 years, Lawrence hairstylist Joelle Zbacnik has used the Health Department’s Family Planning services.

“Everyone is really nice from the receptionists to the nurses. I’ve never felt uncomfortable or like I’m being lectured. I wouldn’t have kept coming back if I did,” Joelle said.

She said she uses the Family Planning services for an annual wellness examination, which generally includes a breast exam, cervical cancer screening and pelvic exam. She also has received testing for sexually-transmitted diseases and HIV. “I felt like if it’s right there and available, I might as well do it and be safe,” she said.

Joelle said the nurses also check her weight and blood pressure, and talk about her overall health, including caffeine and alcohol consumption, exercise and diet. “I am quite lazy and don’t get a lot of exercise,” she said with laughter. “So, they gently remind me that I need 30 minutes a day.” Joelle said nutrition counseling became helpful when she started a nondairy diet. Family Planning Nurse Practitioner Sue McDaneld talked about the importance of calcium for strong bones and teeth and went over things Joelle could eat to get the calcium she needs.

“I appreciate the time they take to get to know me and talk about my health and answer my questions,” Joelle said.

Joelle began using the Health Department when she was 20 years old and no longer qualified for her parents’ health insurance. She said she couldn’t afford to pay full price for such services elsewhere. She’s grateful the Health Department offers services on a sliding scale fee based on her income. “The services are affordable and the staff is very knowledgeable and nice,” she said. “I’ve recommended the Health Department to several friends.”