Travel for abortion care: implications for clinical practice.
Journal
Current opinion in obstetrics & gynecology
ISSN: 1473-656X
Titre abrégé: Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol
Pays: England
ID NLM: 9007264
Informations de publication
Date de publication:
01 12 2023
01 12 2023
Historique:
medline:
3
11
2023
pubmed:
2
11
2023
entrez:
2
11
2023
Statut:
ppublish
Résumé
Traveling long distances to obtain abortion care due to restrictions and scarce availability is associated with significant obstacles. We review clinical strategies that can facilitate abortion access and outline considerations to ensure person-centered and equitable care. Establishing a patient's gestational duration prior to travel may be beneficial to ensure they are eligible for their desired abortion method at the preferred facility or to determine if a multiday procedure is required. If a local ultrasound cannot be obtained prior to travel, evidence demonstrates people can generally estimate their gestational duration accurately. If unable to provide care, clinicians should make timely referrals for abortion. Integration of telemedicine into abortion care is safe and well regarded by patients and should be implemented into service delivery where possible to reduce obstacles to care. Routine in-person follow-up care is not necessary. However, for those who want reassurance, formalized pathways to care should be established to ensure people have access to care in their community. To further minimize travel-related burdens, facilities should routinely offer information about funding and practical support, emotional support, and legal resources. There are many opportunities to optimize clinical practice to support those traveling for abortion care.
Identifiants
pubmed: 37916900
doi: 10.1097/GCO.0000000000000915
pii: 00001703-202312000-00004
doi:
Types de publication
Review
Journal Article
Langues
eng
Sous-ensembles de citation
IM
Pagination
476-483Informations de copyright
Copyright © 2023 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.
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