Joplin’s Planned Parenthood to close January 1

The Planned Parenthood Clinic in Joplin will be closing its doors on January 1, 2025.

Planned Parenthood Great Rivers (PPGR) announced the service changes Tuesday.

“The changes we’re making will ensure we are continuing to meet the needs of our patients by streamlining operations and enhancing our health delivery options,” said Richard Muniz, interim President and CEO, Planned Parenthood Great Rivers.

“Our patients can rest assured that the quality, compassionate care they know and rely on will not only continue to be available but also that we are continuously adapting to provide a better patient experience.”

The organization is also closing two clinics in the St. Louis-area in November but they are expanding telehealth services at other clinics in that part of the state.

PPGR says they will continue to provide transportation for Joplin patients to the Springfield clinic and will also refer patients to the recently opened clinic in Pittsburg, Kansas.

As the Missouri Independent reports, the organization says neither legislative efforts to cut Planned Parenthood off from Medicaid funding nor next month’s vote on an abortion-rights amendment were factors in the consolidation.