By Kisean Joseph
The Antigua & Barbuda Planned Parenthood Association (APPA) will be expanding its community outreach programs this year, newly appointed Director Kathleen Richardson said yesterday.
The organization, which has served the nation since 1970, plans to bring its comprehensive healthcare services directly to vulnerable communities across the island.
“We are going out into the community,” Richardson said, outlining plans to establish healthcare services in areas such as Gray’s Farm and All Saints.
This initiative marks a significant step forward in the organization’s mission to make reproductive healthcare more accessible to all Antiguans and Barbudans.
The announcement comes on the heels of APPA’s successful school outreach program in 2024, which engaged with approximately 20 schools across the nation.
“We brought them here to get a feel as to all the services that we offer,” Richardson explained and indicated that the organization is committed to education and breaking down misconceptions about family planning services.
APPA’s comprehensive services include a wide range of healthcare options. “We offer contraceptives, cholesterol testing, haemoglobin screening, ultrasound services, blood sugar and blood pressure monitoring, antenatal visits, and pap smears,” Richardson outlined.
According to the Director, the organization has also expanded its services to include HPV and DNA testing, HIV screening and comprehensive STI testing, working in partnership with various health secretariats.
Looking ahead, Richardson expressed enthusiasm about reviving the organization’s youth summer camp program.
“A lot of the children called us last year to find out if we were going to have the summer camp,” she said, noting the program’s popularity.
The organization is also strengthening its partnerships with local schools through guidance counselors, aiming to enhance sexual health education and support for young people through specialized training programs designed to create peer educators within the youth community.
The organization, located at the corner of Factory Road and Mahico Drive, maintains a full-time nurse on staff. It offers comprehensive pre-and post-test counseling for all health screenings with priority placed on accessibility and confidentiality.
“We invite our community to take advantage of all our services,” Richardson said. “We are committed to supporting the reproductive health and rights of every individual in Antigua and Barbuda, helping families plan their future on their own terms.”