By Kaitlyn Morrison, Winter Intern

As we all feel the impacts of the economic crisis, studies find that the recession is causing women to disproportionally lose their access to health care services. According to a recent United States Senate study, rates of income reduction and unemployment among women are increasing more quickly than among their male counterparts.

Financial difficulties compel many people to delay or go without medical care, only to face higher costs and more complex health problems down the road.

“In times like these, the Women’s Community Clinic is a critical safety net to ensure Bay Area women can access the health care services and support they need,” said Anita Zamora, Clinical Program Coordinator.

“At the Clinic, we are seeing a noticeable increase in clients who have recently lost their jobs,” said Zamora. “The percent increase we’ve seen is more than the state unemployment rate (10%) – in large part because, the working women that we see are employed (or recently unemployed) in vulnerable industries that are getting hit disproportionally hard by the recession.”

When Edna Basa finished graduate school and was unable to find steady work, she turned to the Women’s Community Clinic for health services. She says that both she and her friends have had difficulty finding stable jobs. “Even if you do [find employment], they don’t offer health benefits,” she said.

After reading positive reviews about the Clinic on the internet, Edna scheduled an appointment and was very pleased with the services she received. ”They made me feel really comfortable. I would say it was definitely a good experience.”

The homeless and marginally housed women in our community have also felt the impact of the recession. Many women are turning to Ladies’ Night, the weekly drop-in program the Clinic offers in collaboration with other local service agencies.

“I think [the recession] made me start coming here more,” said Cassandra, Ladies’ Night attendee. “It’s always hard to find a job. It’s scary, you know, it’s hard. But you got a place to come to here to get what you need, and different groups to help you out.”

In tough times, the social support of the Ladies’ Night community can be a vital access point for women who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Ladies’ Night creates a space for women to come together to build self-confidence and make positive changes in their lives.

“Ladies’ Night has always been important,” said Jamie Armstrong, Outreach Assistant. “Now, I think the women we serve are going to lean more on Ladies’ Night to provide services and support to keep them afloat during this time.”

As the need for the Clinic’s services increases, so does the Clinic’s need for community support.

“The number one thing we need is more health care providers,” said Yvonne Piper, Clinic Manager. “If you are looking for a way to give back, the best way is to volunteer.”

The Clinic is currently recruiting for its Clinician Volunteer Program and Health Worker Program.

For more information or to volunteer, contact Katie McCall at Katie@womenscommunityclinic.org