September 30, 2025 | From City of New Orleans
City of New Orleans Health Department Commits to Preserving Health Access Amid Clinic Closure
The New Orleans Health Department (NOHD) acknowledges the significant impact that the September 30 closure of the New Orleans Planned Parenthood clinic will have on residents who have relied on the clinic for essential health care. Historically, Planned Parenthood’s services have been used by thousands of New Orleanians each year from all neighborhoods and walks of life.Between 2023 and 2024, there were more than 16,000 visits to Planned Parenthood in New Orleans, primarily for sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing and treatment. These appointments also served as a critical point of connection to HIV prevention and care for individuals at higher risk or already living with HIV. The clinic provided 8,800 family planning visits, offering annual exams, birth control counseling, and a range of contraceptive options. Planned Parenthood providers have also played a pivotal role in cancer screening and prevention efforts through wellness exams.
“For over 40 years, Planned Parenthood provided sexual and reproductive health services to New Orleans residents, especially to those without consistent access to care.As these clinics close, it is essential that we highlight existing resources available throughout the city, provide residents with guidance, and remain committed to protecting access to essential sexual and reproductive health care,” said Ryann Martinek, Sexual and Reproductive Health Specialist with the New Orleans Health Department.
Community members can continue to find affordable, confidential services through existing primary care providers by using the following tools:
- 504HealthNet “Find a Clinic” Map Locate affordable clinics offering primary care, STI testing/treatment, and reproductive health services within the Greater New Orleans area.
- Bedside “Find a Health Center” Tool Search for birth control and reproductive health providers locally and nationwide.
- New Orleans Health Department STI Testing Locator Map Find confidential STI/HIV testing and treatment locations within New Orleans, many of which are free or low-cost.
- Bounce to Zero is a citywide initiative to end new HIV transmission and connect those living with HIV to care and resources. Free self-administered HIV and syphilis rapid tests are available to residents of Orleans, Jefferson, St. Tammany, St. Bernard, St. John the Baptist, St. Charles, St. James, and Plaquemines parishes through the Bounce to Zero webpage.
- New Orleans Health Department’s HCH Clinic The New Orleans Health Department's HCH offers primary care services to individuals regardless of insurance or housing status. In addition to primary care, reproductive and sexual health services, including STI testing, treatment, and access to contraception, are readily available to patients.
For more information about sexual and reproductive health, visit nola.gov/sexualhealth.