Planned Parenthood Organizations Merge to Expand Services

By Maui Now Staff

Planned Parenthood of the Great Northwest and Planned Parenthood of Hawai‘i have announced a new partnership for improved healthcare, educational and advocacy services for men, women and teens in Hawai‘i. The two entities have signed an agreement to initiate the process of merging.

“The PPHI Board and leadership team has determined that partnering with PPGNW will further our ability to thrive in the current health care environment and ensure the continuation of Planned Parenthood services in communities across Hawai‘i,” said Joanna Amberger, PPHI board chair.

“This is an exciting time,” said Chris Charbonneau, CEO of Planned Parenthood of the Great Northwest, who assumed the position of interim CEO of PPHI on Feb. 13, 2015. “Together, we will be able to continue to provide the best access to care for those who need these services most across the great state of Hawai‘i. We are a natural fit to partner with PPHI given our broad reach and experience working with many diverse communities in three different states, including Alaska.”

The Planned Parenthood organizations offer sexual and reproductive healthcare, including affordable birth control, well-woman visits, breast and cervical cancer screenings, emergency contraception, LGBT services, STD testing and treatment, abortion services, as well as complete sexual health education and information.

Following the merger, the resulting organization is anticipated to operate 28 health centers across Hawai‘i, Alaska, Idaho and Western Washington.