For Immediate Release: April 4, 2024
Contact: Tia Kafka - DOHMedia@state.sd.us

The South Dakota Department of Health Introduces South Dakota PLAN: Prepare, Learn, Advocate, Navigate

PIERRE, SD – The South Dakota Department of Health, as a provider of Title X Family Planning services, has undergone a transformation and is proud to unveil its new identity as South Dakota PLAN. Formerly known as Family Planning, this rebranding marks a significant milestone in DOH’s ongoing commitment to ensuring accessible and comprehensive healthcare services for individuals across the state.

“A great amount of thought and consideration went into this new name for this program. South Dakota PLAN stands for Prepare, Learn, Advocate and Navigate,” said Melissa Magstadt, Secretary of the South Dakota Department of Health. “With this new identity, we reaffirm our commitment to providing judgment-free, confidential care and empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their futures."

Last year, 3,753 South Dakotans utilized the services provided by South Dakota PLAN for their wellness and health care. These services are used by women and men of all demographics and ages but are especially impactful for challenging socioeconomic situations. Providing these services has guaranteed people throughout South Dakota, in both urban and rural areas, have had access to care since 1972, when it was first introduced to our state. 

A cornerstone of South Dakota PLAN's mission is its commitment to affordability and accessibility. Through a sliding fee scale, individuals can access services without financial barriers, ensuring everyone, regardless of income, can receive the care they need to safeguard their health. The program also prioritizes confidentiality and strives to foster trust and communication between clients and healthcare providers.

"The rebranding of Family Planning to South Dakota PLAN reflects our continued dedication to promoting the health and wellbeing for all South Dakotans,” said Secretary Magstadt.

South Dakota PLAN Clinics serve as inclusive spaces where individuals can receive a wide range of comprehensive services offered by South Dakota PLAN. These services include contraceptive counseling and methods, physical exams for all genders, screening for sexually transmitted infections and HIV, pregnancy testing and counseling, basic infertility services, and screenings for breast and cervical cancer.

For further information on South Dakota PLAN and its services, individuals are encouraged to visit JustAskPLAN.com.

At the heart of the Department of Health’s mission is a simple yet profound goal: to protect and improve the health of all South Dakotans. The department is entrusted with the vital task of promoting wellness, preventing disease, and ensuring access to quality healthcare for all South Dakotans across our great state.

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