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Former Baltimore Health Commissioner speaks out about women's healthcare

Says women's healthcare in "state of emergency"
Posted at 8:58 AM, Nov 13, 2018
and last updated 2018-11-13 08:59:55-05

Baltimore's former Health Commissioner is speaking out about women's healthcare in her new role as the president of Planned Parenthood.

Dr. Leana Wen says she's seeing "A state of emergency" for women's health in America in light of recent discussions about the landmark Roe versus Wade ruling, which legalized abortion.

She says she believes politicians should not be the ones making decisions about women's personal health.

"We're seeing that voters across this country are voting for more healthcare, and not less. Solidly 'red' states, like Utah, Idaho, Nebraska voted to increase Medicaid expansion. We, the people, believe that healthcare is a fundamental human right," said Dr. Wen. 

Planned Parenthood has often gained pushback because of its abortion services.

However, wen says the organization also provides a range of essential health care options to women of all races and socio-economic backgrounds.