Planned Parenthood clinics close in Louisiana after more than 40 years

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — For decades, Planned Parenthood has provided care in Louisiana, offering everything from wellness exams to STI testing and treatment. Now, with the organization’s New Orleans and Baton Rouge clinic officially closed, city leaders say the loss is significant, but resources remain available.

Ryann Martinek, Sexual and Reproductive Health Specialist with the New Orleans Health Department, said the city’s focus is on connecting patients to care that still exists in the area.

“We have the HCH clinic, which is available to residents regardless of insurance or housing status. It provides primary care as well as sexual and reproductive health services. Additionally, I think this is where partnership is really key. We’re part of a larger member network called 504 HealthNet, which is a collective of clinics across greater New Orleans providing sexual and reproductive health care,” Martinek said.

According to the Health Department, just last year alone more than 16,000 visits were recorded at Planned Parenthood’s New Orleans clinic. Most were for STI testing and treatment. Nearly 9,000 patients came for family planning services, including birth control and annual exams. Hundreds more received cancer screenings.

Half of all patients were on Medicaid, and most were between the ages of 18 and 39.

While many patients and health leaders expressed concern about the closure, anti-abortion advocates marked the day differently. Louisiana Right to Life organized a diaper drive outside the Claiborne Avenue facility.

The group said the event was meant to commemorate the closure and promote alternatives for women seeking care. They report collecting more than $20,000 worth of diapers and supplies for mothers and babies.

Erica Inzina with Louisiana Right to Life, said patients won’t be left without options.

“The reality is that anybody who utilizes the services of Planned Parenthood in Louisiana will not be left without care. There are dozens of other options that are affordable and, in our view, better quality and more highly regulated,” Inzina said.

The New Orleans Health Department is directing residents to resources including the HCH Clinic, 504 HealthNet’s “Find a Clinic” map, and other community health partners that continue to provide reproductive and sexual health services.

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