If Wyoming bans abortion, hospitals could have an even more difficult time recruiting physicians : NPR

Throughout the United States, a growing number of conservative states have passed laws restricting access to abortion services – and one of the most consequential bans is being discussed in Wyoming. If the state bans abortion, hospitals could have an even more difficult time recruiting physicians, NPR reports.

According to NPR, one in four of the nation’s counties are without abortion providers – and that number jumps to 45 percent of Wyoming’s counties. Within the state, many of the remaining healthcare providers are clinics run primarily by licensed physicians – but the result of a ban could cause those doctors to leave.

NPR states that the lack of abortion services already has an effect on healthcare – especially when it comes to recruiting physicians. In Wyoming, any would-be doctor knows that there are some hospitals that will not offer abortion services – and this reality can be a deterrent to applying for a job.

The American Medical Association (AMA) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) both oppose abortion bans. The groups consider abortion a part of comprehensive reproductive and primary care for women. To women residing in the state, it could mean less access to healthcare services – services that are critical for their health and well-being.

Beyond the political discussions, many healthcare providers worry that a ban could have a significant impact on hospitals. It could mean a lack of physicians and, as a result, a lack of access to other services and treatments.

Though Wyoming was the first state to pass a law requiring abortion services to be performed by fully-licensed physicians, the effect on hospitals could be significant if a ban is passed. Hospitals in the state could face even more difficulties recruiting physicians, and a ban could have a serious impact on the overall access to healthcare services in the state. [ad_1]

[ad_2]

Resource backlink