One Year After Roe v. Wade: Abortion Providers in Legal States are Oases for Reproductive Care
Introduction
One year after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, abortion providers in states where abortion remains legal are seeing a surge in demand for reproductive care. Providers in the Midwest and Mountain West regions were interviewed by Agency prior to the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision, and now they are sharing how things have panned out.
Demand for Reproductive Care Skyrocketed
Planned Parenthood branches in the Midwest and Mountain West regions have seen a surge in patients as more than a dozen states have enacted strict limits on abortion or outright banned it. Adrienne Mansaneres, CEO of Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains, noted that her branch has seen a 50% increase in patients since last year. Out-of-state visitors have gone up from 20% to over 50%, with the majority coming from Texas. Planned Parenthood of Illinois also reported a dramatic increase in patients, with Illinois being the number one incoming state for abortion patients in the country.
Impact on Abortion Patients
Patients who travel across state lines for abortions are often scared, confused, and exasperated. They are afraid to return to their home state and worry about the possibility of follow-up care. Medication abortion patients are especially affected, with some driving more than 10 hours to get to their appointment. However, many patients are stunned by the supportive, non-judgmental care they receive.
Operating in a Post-Roe America
The influx of patients has necessitated expanding operational hours, clinic space, staffing, and the way providers administer care. Providers have invested in more advanced technology and expanded telehealth offerings to reduce the number of in-person visits. Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri opened a clinic just over the border from St. Louis in Fairview Heights, Illinois. They also opened a logistics center to help patients navigate the complex web of abortion funds and arrange for their travel needs.
Conclusion
Providers in states where abortion remains legal are seeing a surge in demand for reproductive care. Patients are traveling long distances to receive non-judgmental care and are often scared and frustrated. Providers are expanding their services and investing in technology to meet the needs of their patients.
