Ribbon-cutting at the new Women's Health Center at the Providence VA. Photo by Steve Klamkin WPRO News

By Steve Klamkin WPRO News

A free-standing health center devoted to health care for women veterans opened Monday at the Providence VA Medical Center.

The 2,200 square foot center is on the grounds, but is separate from the VA Medical Center, and was designed with features requested by women veterans.

"Women do need their own area, the women do need a private location," said Dr. Dawna Blake, Director of the Women's Health program at the Center. She said that among other health concerns, women can come to the center to talk about sexual abuse.

"The women that choose not to be with the mainstream have a private area that they can come to and feel safe, I think that's the most important thing, that's the safety aspect of it," said Dr. Blake.

One woman who is a long-time member of the military marveled over how, a health center devoted to women was unheard of just 20 years ago.

"Before, they used to just say, 'deal with it. You know, this is what we have, deal with it'," said Command Chief Master Sergeant Lori Ashness, a 35-year veteran of the Rhode Island National Guard.

"But now, we are being focused on. Great strides have been made, specifically here in this state," said Sgt. Ashness.

Among those speaking at the ceremony and cutting the ribbon were Senator Jack Reed and Congressman James Langevin.