Planned Parenthood Federation of America Statement on Pharmacies' Dispensing of Medication Abortion

New York – Today, Planned Parenthood Federation of America responded to an announcement from Walgreens that it does not plan to dispense medication abortion in 20 states, after those states’ Attorneys General sent a letter to two major retail pharmacies warning them of complying with state and federal laws. This includes several states where abortion remains legal.

Statement attributable to Danika Severino Wynn, CNM, vice president of abortion access at Planned Parenthood Federation of America:

“This is the exact result anti-abortion actors want from their intimidation tactics. When politicians have the ability to interfere in the patient-provider relationship — in defiance of well-established science and medical evidence — people seeking access to timely, essential health care suffer. The decisions companies make regarding health care services should be rooted in public health and safety and the needs of patients — not fear of litigation by politicians committed to controlling people’s health care decisions, bodies, and lives.

“Every person should be able to access abortion care when they need it, how they need it. Health care providers should be empowered to provide the care patients need — full stop.”

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Planned Parenthood is the nation’s leading provider and advocate of high-quality, affordable sexual and reproductive health care, as well as the nation’s largest provider of sex education. With more than 600 health centers across the country, Planned Parenthood organizations serve all patients with care and compassion, with respect and without judgment. Through health centers, programs in schools and communities, and online resources, Planned Parenthood is a trusted source of reliable health information that allows people to make informed health decisions. We do all this because we care passionately about helping people lead healthier lives.