Policy: Accessibility for all girls and women

As mentioned earlier, we propose the creation of a policy allowing all women access to pap tests, as well as educating women on the importance of the pap test for their health. We recognize the challenges and barriers that will be presented, including funding issues, and criticism from certain cultural and religious groups. We also mentioned that we would form a relationship with the Womens Health Network, as they would be an excellent resource and ally.

Another policy we would like to implement regarding the HPV vaccine is to ensure that all girls and women have equal access to the Gardisil, or whichever other vaccines come out in the future. Currently the schools are the only place girls get get vaccinated for free, which is not inclusive for those who attend a school that does not support the vaccine. Also, the school may not be the best place for this vaccine as many parents, and students, have questions and concerns regarding the vaccine, and may not feel comfortable with the vaccine being in the school; rather, they would prefer going to their doctor or clinic, and still be able to get the vaccine for free. We believe that as long as the girl in the "target age", which in Ontario is grade 8, girls should be free to choose where they would like to get vaccinated, at school or at a clinic. That way, all girls are included.

In order to do this, we would need to speak with school board trustees, to get their imput and suggestions, as well as find out which boards are implementing the HPV vaccine.We could meet with parent groups, or conduct surveys to find out parents thoughts on the issue and what their concerns are. We would also have to meet with provincial health ministers, in order to get funding for clinics and doctors offices to carry Gardisil and vaccinate girls of the target age for free. Each girl would need a record of whether or not she has receieved the vaccine, just as they have records for other innoculations. Vaccines must only be given out by trained doctors and nurses, with signed forms from the girl's guardians. It is also important to note that the HPV vaccine is not mandatory, nor do we plan on making it mandatory. We feel mandatory pap tests are more important. Instead, this policy is meant to give girls more freedom and more choices to make the decision that is best for them.