One year after Roe v. Wade was overturned, people seeking reproductive healthcare are feeling what was expected: lack of accessibility, uncertainty, rising costs, and fear. Despite increasing challenges, Planned Parenthood is responding with an abortion access plan to increase availability throughout Iowa.
“The abortion access crisis across our country is a health care emergency, and we are laser-focused on providing care in a more equitable way and meeting the increased demand for abortion care,” said Dr. Sarah Traxler, chief medical officer at Planned Parenthood North Central States.
Planned Parenthood will launch its plan to expand abortion care at its Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Ames, and Omaha, Nebraska, locations, with an increase in staffing at each location.
However, Planned Parenthood clinics in Cedar Falls, Council Bluffs, and Rosenfield in Des Moines will permanently close. The plan is expected to launch on July 1.
“The plan adjusts to the increasing costs and continuous political interference while continuing to meet patient needs,” a Planned Parenthood press release stated. “Planned Parenthood North Central States will be investing in key staffing positions, expanding abortion care, and reducing overlap in services.”
Mazie Stilwell, director of public affairs of Iowa for Planned Parenthood North Central States, introduced the plan during a press conference Friday. Stilwell said while the number of Planned Parenthood health centers are decreasing, the number of patients seen will be increased.
“Consolidating locations will prevent the routine closing of health centers due to staffing shortages, ensuring that patients experience a continuity of care,” she said.
Planned Parenthood’s efforts work to build a new future rooted in health equity, bodily autonomy, dignity, and shared humanity, according to Stilwell.
“At a time when patients are facing increased confusion about accessing care, we must be a reliable and steady resource,” she added.
Since Jun. 24, 2022, Planned Parenthood North Central States has experienced a 9% increase in total abortions, alongside a 100% increase in patients traveling to central states—Iowa, Nebraska, and Minnesota—to have an abortion. Maternal mortality has also increased, with trends expected to worsen.
“We remain committed to providing our patients with the essential sexual and reproductive health care that they need,” she said. “Every person deserves the right to control older bodies and futures. These new changes will allow us to operate more efficiently in this ever-changing post-Roe landscape.”
by Grace Katzer
6/23/2023
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