Because of abortion restrictions, 60% of OB-GYNs in Texas said they fear legal repercussions if they provide care following evidence-based medicine, according to a report published Oct. 8 by consulting firm Manatt Health.
Researchers surveyed 447 current OB-GYN physicians and 47 physician residents in Texas for the report. The survey was distributed online between June 11 and Sept. 13 and aimed to analyze if Texas abortion restrictions were affecting current and future practicing physicians.
Here are six things to know from the report:
- Seventy-four percent of physicians said Texas abortion laws had an impact on their practice, and 71% said the impact was negative.
- Seventy-six percent of physicians said Texas abortion laws prevented their ability to practice evidence-based medicine.
- Twenty-one percent of physicians and physician residents said they had thought about leaving Texas and continuing to practice in another state.
- Forty-four percent of physicians said they have changed or thought about changing how and where they practice medicine because of Texas abortion restrictions.
- Fifty-seven of physician residents said Texas abortion restrictions had an effect on their decision to leave or stay in the state after residency.
- A 2021 HHS report estimated Texas will have a 15% OB-GYN workforce shortage by 2030.
In August, the Center for Reproductive Rights filed complaints with HHS against two Texas hospitals on behalf of two women who allegedly were turned away when seeking ectopic pregnancy care.