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COLUMBIA, MO. -- The abortion clinic at Columbia’s Planned Parenthood office is getting a new doctor in February.

Organization leaders stopped abortion services at their Columbia health center in September after their previous doctor left for military duty.

Planned Parenthood administrators are not releasing the new doctor’s name because of security reasons.

At first, the new doctor will use abortion pills for patients.

Columbia Planned Parenthood officials hope to begin surgical abortions within the next 2 months.

Planned Parenthood of Kansas and Mid-Missouri CEO and President Peter Brownlie said, “We know the need is here.  Women have been calling us.  We’re just very pleased that women will be able to get that service close to home without having to travel the distance that they travel now.”

The Missouri Legislature passed a law last year that forces abortion providers to consult with the parent of a minor before the procedure can take place.

The law also states health insurance companies can cover abortions, only if the woman’s life is endangered.