Texas health officials are working to consolidate two of the state’s main women’s health programs, according to The Texas Tribune. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission announced Wednesday that it would combine the services to create the “Healthy Texas Women” program. Lawmakers say the consolidation will improve efficiency. The new initiative will begin on July first.
Under the program, low-income women between the ages of 15 and 44 will qualify for health screenings and contraception. This program is a departure from the previous one, as it extends eligibility to minors of child-bearing age. However, minors will need parental consent to receive any care.
The decision to consolidate the programs comes four years after the legislature made sharp cuts to the state’s family planning budget.