Use of clinic versus private family planning care by low-income women: access, cost, and patient satisfaction

Use of private physicians versus public family planning facilities by poverty level and near poverty level women was examined by means of a sample survey conducted in low-income areas of Los Angeles County. Utilization differed by race/ethnicity, with Hispanics more likely to go to federally subsidized family planning clinics (primarily county-run), Whites and Blacks to private physicians. Private family planning offers easier access, greater convenience, and higher satisfaction, albeit at almost double the cost. Clinic usage is influenced by lack of a regular source of medical care and lack of insurance coverage more than poverty level per se. Clinic patients report greater patient education regarding contraceptive methods, but less general medical care during clinic visits. They are more likely than private patients to express a desire for a different source of family planning care.