CHICAGO, Ill. (WSIL) – In the wake of new federal legislation signed today by President Trump that aims to “defund” Planned Parenthood and slash Medicaid funding, Planned Parenthood of Illinois (PPIL) is reaffirming its commitment to providing uninterrupted health care services to tens of thousands of patients across the state.

The bill has sparked concern among many who rely on Medicaid to access essential health services. But PPIL says its doors will remain open and care for patients will continue as usual.

“We refuse to stop providing care to our patients, especially those who are the most vulnerable,” said Tonya Tucker, Interim President and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Illinois.

“We are grateful that our state government and supporters understand that health care is a human right for every body”, says Tucker.

According to PPIL, nearly 30,000 patients use Medicaid to access services at their health centers, including birth control, STI testing and treatment, cancer screenings, prenatal and abortion care, and gender-affirming services.

Despite federal funding cuts, Planned Parenthood has worked to develop contingency plans to protect access and minimize disruption for patients.

Founded more than 100 years ago, Planned Parenthood of Illinois is the largest provider of sexual and reproductive health care in the state. Last year alone, PPIL provided care to over 66,000 patients. 

For more information about PPIL’s services or to find a health center near you, visit www.ppil.org.

Originally published on this site