Oral

International and domestic policy regarding abortion rights and reproductive health information will be discussed to illustrate the importance of public health and human rights advocacy to protect women’s health. Recent regulatory actions and policies have limited access to comprehensive reproductive care and safe abortion options for many women, often disproportionately affecting racial and ethnic minorities. Potential policy actions and suggestions will be discussed, as well as the relevance of scientific, public health research to combat the current support for anti-choice policies which are detrimental to women’s health and welfare. Evaluation of abortion activity and legislation will be presented, as gaps in evaluation can deter progress in women’s health care reform.

Session Objectives: 1. Describe the potential impact of regulation and policy on women’s abortion experience. 2. Recognize possible implications of restrictions and legislation on minority women. 3. Discuss the public health benefits of safe and legal abortion in regards to access to care and pregnancy prevention methods. 4. Understand important legislative decisions concerning abortion, including Roe v. Wade and the potential limitations and current issues surrounding such laws. 5. Recognize the importance of ongoing evaluation of abortion access, availability and policy.

CE Credits: CME, Health Education (CHES), Nursing