What's Happening?
Following the Supreme Court's Dobbs decision in June 2022, which revoked the federal right to an abortion, the U.S. has seen a significant reduction in the number of abortion clinics. According to a report by the Guttmacher Institute, there were 753 brick-and-mortar
abortion clinics at the end of 2025, marking a decrease of 54 clinics since 2020. This trend is not limited to states with abortion bans; even states with protective abortion policies, like New York and Illinois, have experienced clinic closures. New York, despite enshrining abortion rights in its constitution, saw a net loss of eight clinics since early 2024. Illinois, a critical access point for out-of-state patients, also reported a decrease in clinics, although it remains resilient due to strong community and policy support.
Why It's Important?
The closure of abortion clinics has significant implications for access to reproductive health care in the U.S. With fewer clinics, patients may face longer travel distances and wait times, particularly in states that serve as access points for those from restrictive states. The financial strain on clinics, exacerbated by inflation and stagnant reimbursement rates, further complicates the situation. The reduction in clinics could lead to increased demand on remaining facilities and potentially push patients to seek later-term abortions, which are more complex and costly. This situation underscores the ongoing challenges in ensuring equitable access to abortion services across the country.
What's Next?
As the landscape of abortion access continues to evolve, states like Illinois are working to bolster their capacity to serve out-of-state patients. The rise of telehealth abortion services, which accounted for over a quarter of all abortions in the first half of 2025, offers an alternative, though in-person services remain crucial for later-term procedures. The potential for federal restrictions on medication abortion could further strain resources, prompting providers to explore innovative solutions to maintain access. The resilience and adaptability of abortion providers will be critical in navigating these challenges.
