Advanced practice clinicians as abortion providers: current developments in the United States

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Healthcare Policy
• Medical Education

Background:

• Primary healthcare in the U.S. is largely provided by advanced practice clinicians (APCs).
• There is a recognized shortage of physician providers for abortion care.
• National symposia in 1990 and 1996 endorsed APCs providing early abortion services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the expanding role of APCs in first-trimester abortion provision.
• To assess the progress and challenges of APC involvement in abortion care.
• To gauge the interest of APCs in receiving abortion training.

Main Methods:

• Review of national symposia recommendations and policy changes.
• Analysis of APCs providing medical and early surgical abortions in 14 states by January 2004.
• Examination of political organizing efforts and legal/regulatory changes.
• Survey data on APC interest in abortion training in three states.

Main Results:

• Trained APCs were providing abortion care in 14 states as of January 2004.
• Significant political and regulatory efforts were necessary to enable APCs to provide abortion care.
• Surveys indicate substantial interest among APCs in abortion training.
• APCs demonstrate a strong commitment to abortion care.

Conclusions:

• The expanding role of APCs is a positive development for abortion access in the U.S.
• Increased APC involvement can help mitigate physician shortages in abortion care.
• There is cautious optimism for improved abortion access due to APC training interest and dedication.