Abortion provision among practicing obstetrician-gynecologists

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Medical Practice Demographics
• Healthcare Access

Background:

• Abortion provision is a critical aspect of reproductive healthcare.
• Understanding the prevalence and factors influencing abortion provision among obstetrician-gynecologists (ob-gyns) is essential for assessing healthcare access.

Purpose of the Study:

• To estimate the prevalence of abortion provision among practicing ob-gyns in the United States.
• To identify correlates associated with ob-gyns providing abortion services.

Main Methods:

• A national probability sample mail survey of 1,800 practicing ob-gyns was conducted.
• Data collected included patient encounters seeking abortions and services provided.
• Correlates examined were physician demographics, religious affiliation, religiosity, and facility religious affiliation.

Main Results:

• 97% of ob-gyns encountered patients seeking abortions, but only 14% performed them.
• Female physicians, younger physicians, those in the Northeast/West, and those in urban areas were more likely to provide abortions.
• Physicians identifying as Jewish were more likely to provide abortions, while Catholics, Protestants, and highly religious physicians were less likely.

Conclusions:

• The proportion of U.S. ob-gyns providing abortions may be lower than previously estimated.
• Physician willingness to provide abortion services significantly impacts access, particularly in rural areas and specific U.S. regions (South, Midwest).
• Findings highlight disparities in abortion access influenced by physician characteristics and geographic factors.