Planned Parenthood of Southwestern Oregon announced a major restructuring that will combine its operations with the neighboring Planned Parenthood Columbia Willamette affiliate. The move, set to take effect in February, will result in the layoff of 75 employees from the southwestern affiliate, which employed 123 staff members in 2024.
Why the consolidation?
According to Mary Sullivan, director of communications for Planned Parenthood Action Oregon, the organization has faced “unsustainable financial pressures” driven by rising costs, low Medicaid reimbursement rates, and what the agency describes as increasing federal hostility toward reproductive health care. Recent tax filings show the southwestern affiliate posted deficits for two consecutive years, losing about $1.6 million in fiscal year 2025 and $2.3 million the year before.
What will change for patients?
Planned Parenthood assures patients that the transition will not affect the range of services offered at its two Eugene‑Springfield health centers. The West Eugene Health Center on Danebo Avenue and the Eugene‑Springfield Health Center on Franklin Boulevard will continue to provide birth control, cancer screenings, treatment for sexually transmitted infections, menopause management and abortion care. Existing appointments, medical records and insurance coverage will carry over without interruption.
Patients are being encouraged to stay the course while the organization communicates directly about any needed steps. Telehealth options and nearby locations will also be used to maintain continuity of care.
Job transition support
Those affected by the layoffs are being urged to apply for open positions with the newly formed Planned Parenthood of Oregon and Southwestern Washington, which will manage 12 health centers across the region. On the day of the announcement, Planned Parenthood Columbia Willamette posted 23 job openings, including 14 in Eugene.
Local impact
The consolidation reflects a broader trend of nonprofit health providers adapting to fiscal challenges while striving to preserve essential services for the community. Lane County has benefited from more than 100,000 patient visits to Planned Parenthood clinics statewide in fiscal year 2025, underscoring the organization’s role in local health care.
While the West Eugene Health Center is temporarily closed after a vehicle crash caused damage to the building, police are investigating the incident. Planned Parenthood is working with patients to arrange care at nearby sites during the short‑term closure.
Looking ahead
Effective February 14, Planned Parenthood Columbia Willamette will assume control of the three southern affiliate clinics and operate under the name Planned Parenthood of Oregon and Southwestern Washington. The merger aims to create a more financially stable entity capable of delivering consistent, high‑quality reproductive health services throughout the region.
Community leaders and health advocates have expressed support for the organization’s continued presence, emphasizing the importance of accessible health care options for families and individuals across Lane County.
Original reporting: Homepage – Lookout Eugene-Springfield — read the source article.
