Development of a Conceptual Model and Survey Instrument to Measure Conscientious Objection to Abortion Provision

Area of Science:

• Bioethics
• Public Health
• Reproductive Health

Background:

• Conscientious objection to abortion by clinicians is a growing concern, impacting reproductive rights and potentially increasing unsafe abortions.
• Existing policies aim to balance provider beliefs with patient access, but practical barriers remain.
• There is a need for quantitative data on conscientious objection from medical and public health viewpoints.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and describe a survey instrument for measuring conscientious objection to abortion provision.
• To provide a tool for assessing the prevalence and practice of conscientious objection.

Main Methods:

• A conceptual model was developed through a literature review and stakeholder interviews in Colombia.
• A survey instrument was created based on this model.
• The survey was piloted and administered in Ghana.

Main Results:

• The developed survey instrument is based on a model of conscientious objection with three domains.
• These domains include beliefs about abortion and objection, actions taken, and self-identification as an objector.

Conclusions:

• The instrument can assess the prevalence of conscientious objection among trained abortion providers.
• It offers insights into the practice of conscientious objection in diverse settings.
• Results can inform strategies for regulating conscientious objection effectively.