A North Alabama in vitro fertilization (IVF) clinic announced that it will be closing after 20 years of practice. Huntsville Reproductive Medicine, P.C. said Monday it will cease accepting patients on September 5th.
Dr. Andrew J. Harper announced the news on social media Monday with “mixed emotions.”
“We understand the impact this may have on our patients and families, and we want to ensure you that we will continue to support you during this transition,” said Harper. “We are grateful for the trust that you placed in us over the years, and we are committed to ensuring that you have the support that you need during this time. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your journey.”
“Providing the community with reproductive care has been a privilege. Please know that we have greatly valued our relationship and wish you and your family the best of health.”
In a later post, the clinic said the decision to close was not related to the IVF ruling from the Alabama Supreme Court earlier this year.
“This was solely a personal decision. We have been honored to serve this community for 20 years. Our patients’ embryos are safe, and we are working on being able to give them many options to protect their family-building goals moving forward.”
The clinic is one of just eight in the state. The ruling in question caused several IVF clinics in the state to either pause or shut down operations for fear of the legal ramifications imposed by the verdict. In March, the Alabama Legislature passed a bill setting forth liability protections for clinical practices.
RELATED: Reed, Ledbetter detail Alabama lawmakers’ approach to IVF: ‘Be very focused, get wise counsel’
On a federal level, lawmakers including U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) are pushing for legislation that would ensure the right to IVF treatments.
Former President and GOP nominee Donald Trump has also weighed in on the issue.
“We want to make it easier for mothers and fathers to have babies, not harder,” Trump said on Truth Social. “That includes supporting the availability of fertility treatments like IVF in every State in America.”
Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten
