Protecting and Advancing Women’s Health and Rights Post-Roe Era Through Policy

Abstract

Since federal legalization in 1973, abortion has become a safe and popular option for those who desire to terminate a pregnancy. However, the Supreme Court decision of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization in June 2022 clearly outlined a national divide that shifted abortion rights in the hands of state legislatures. This shift in legislative power will unveil major systematic flaws and further exacerbate health inequalities among underserved populations. However, legislatures can mitigate the disruption by addressing current infrastructural gaps that will make a positive lasting impact on women’s health. Legislatures should investigate the gaps within the current telehealth guidelines and interstate compact agreements that may lead to a lack of clarity and legality with a shift to state power for abortive services that may prevent abortive service distribution entirely. In addition, Graduate Medical Education Accreditation Councils and state legislatures have the opportunity to blunt the abortion provider shortage that is expected to increase with state power through expansion of family medicine residency programs curriculum and health Advanced Practice Clinicians licensure. Finally, implementation of comprehensive sexual education has shown to promote sexual health and decrease risk factors associated with utilization of abortive service and could be utilized as a preventive measure for future generations. By promptly addressing current infrastructural gaps, legislatures will be on the forefront of the challenges brought by prompt systemic change in the abortion infrastructure.