2 independent clinics continue to provide abortion services amidst Planned Parenthood pause

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Two independent abortion clinics in the state of Wisconsin will continue to provide abortion services. Affiliated Medical Services and Care for All are independent clinics located in Milwaukee.

Starting Wednesday, October 1, they’ll be the only locations in the state of Wisconsin where people who need an abortion can receive one.

At Affiliated Medical Services, Clinic Director Dabbie Phonekeo provides abortion care to roughly 1,000 people every year. Now, she expects that number to increase.

“It’s another alternative, another option for patients to go if they can’t get in or be seen by Planned Parenthood,” said Phonekeo. “Heartbroken. I was devastated because I know how this is going to impact people of Wisconsin.”

On Wednesday, Sept. 24, Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin announced it will stop scheduling abortions starting October 1st. It’s because of a provision in a budget bill passed by President Donald Trump back in July. The provision prevents Planned Parenthoods across the nation from accepting any Medicaid funding if they provide abortions.

“We will lose money as a result of decisions that have come down,” said CEO of Planned Parenthood of Illinois Adrienne White-Faines.

Independent abortion clinics like AMS don’t accept federal funding, allowing them to remain unaffected by this provision.

“In some ways, we do feel protected because we’re not affected by the defunding,” said Phonekeo.

As of now, Wisconsin is the only state where Planned Parenthood is stopping abortion services. Planned Parenthood of Illinois says it plans to remain open. They’ll lose roughly $4.5 million in Medicaid funding, but the organization says it has enough resources to remain open.

According to Planned Parenthood of Illinois, following the overturning of Roe v. Wade, it saw a 47% increase in the number of abortion patients. One in four patients were from out of state.

“We will continue to welcome people from Wisconsin for as long as it takes and across the Midwest itself,” said Megan Jeyifo, the executive director of Chicago Abortion Fund.

Phonekeo says with just two independent clinics in Wisconsin, many people may look for abortion care outside of state lines.

“You’re kind almost messing with people’s lives and this is going to be a devastating blow for Planned Parenthood for now, at least,” said Phonekeo.