Well Women’s Clinic Returns to Health Services

Photo by Giancarlo Sepulveda

This semester, Ramapo’s Health Services has welcomed back an important unit to their wealth of resources — the Well Women’s Clinic located in the student Health Services building. Staffed by a female nurse practitioner, the clinic offers all female students physical exams, contraceptive counseling and other services at no cost.

Stephanie Flores, a Ramapo senior, said, “I think it’s amazing and we need to start focusing on women’s health more, especially with the [attempted] defunding of Planned Parenthood.”

According to Ramapo’s Health Services website, annual physical exams can include breast and pelvic exams, as well as blood and urine testing if deemed appropriate. Pap smears may also be included in this exam to test for any signs of a human papillomavirus, or HPV, infection.

Clarissa Fay, the clinic’s on-site nurse practitioner, said, “I'm aware that for some students this might be their first gynecologic exam and I strive to make it as comfortable as possible.”

The Well Women’s Clinic also offers contraceptive counseling to discuss a woman’s many options for birth control and determine the best option for each individual.

“I think it’s great that we have it, but more people need to know about it, especially if it’s free,” said junior Leah Deangelis.

While students can make appointments and see the nurse at no charge, testing and prescriptions still require a fee. As with all of Ramapo’s Health Services, appointments with the Women’s Clinic are completely confidential.

“I have a gynecologist already but it’s a good option to have on campus if I ever really need it,” said junior Katie Ching.

Students can schedule an appointment at the Well Women’s Clinic on Tuesdays or Wednesdays between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. by calling 201-684-7536. 

 “I spend ample time with all my patients, so I'd like them to know that they will never feel rushed and I will make sure I've answered all their questions before they leave,” says Fay. “The Women's Clinic exists to serve the students. I provide the same care for my patients here that I do in my other gynecology office.”

hreasone@ramapo.edu