On Wednesday, the Mobile Infirmary announced it would no longer offer in-vitro fertilization (IVF) services after December 31, 2024.
The decision raised questions as to whether or not Alabama's Gulf Coast would have IVF available or if those seeking IVF would have to travel to nearby Pensacola, Fla. or D'Iberville, Miss., where the Infirmary-based Center for Reproductive Medicine (CRM) has satellite offices.
However, late Wednesday, CRM announced it would remain in the area with "new state-of-the-art facilities" in Mobile and Daphne.
"The Center for Reproductive Medicine (CRM) proudly announces the resumption of full operations following recent legislation passed by the Alabama legislature regarding IVF," a release sent to 1819 News said. "CRM reaffirms its commitment to providing unparalleled healthcare services to individuals and families in south Alabama and along the entire Gulf Coast."
It added, "Contrary to recent reports, CRM clarifies that it will not be shutting down on December 31. Instead, the practice will transition to new state-of-the-art facilities in Mobile and in Daphne. This move reflects CRM's dedication to expanding accessibility to its cutting-edge scientific advancements, medical expertise, and compassionate care. The new facilities will continue CRM's mission of helping individuals and couples achieve their dreams of starting or expanding their families, and ensuring every patient receives the highest standard of support, care, and treatment available during their IVF journey."
The Mobile Infirmary and CRM were the defendants in a civil lawsuit that resulted in an Alabama Supreme Court decision granting in-vitro fertilization (IVF) embryos protection under Alabama's Wrongful Death of a Minor Act.
Despite a so-called "fix" passed earlier in this year's legislative session and signed into law by Gov. Kay Ivey, CRM just resumed its practice earlier this week.
Jeff Poor is the editor in chief of 1819 News and host of "The Jeff Poor Show," heard Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-noon on Mobile's FM Talk 106.5. To connect or comment, email jeff.poor@1819News.com or follow him on Twitter @jeff_poor.
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