Clinical Scorecard: Evaluation of the Significance of Abortion Care Attributes and Access to Telehealth for Patients Undergoing Medication Abortion: A Cross-Sectional Study within a Prospective Cohort

At a Glance

Key Highlights

• Medication abortion accounts for the majority of abortions in the U.S.
• Telehealth now accounts for 1 in 4 abortions nationally.
• Telehealth medication abortion is comparably safe and effective as in-person care.
• Patients prioritize lower-cost care and shorter wait times.
• Access to telehealth abortion is limited by state laws and technology availability.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

• Eligibility screening for medication abortion via telehealth.

Management

• Provision of medication abortion through telehealth or in-person care.

Monitoring & Follow-up

• Assessment of patient preferences and access to technology for telehealth.

Risks

• Limited access for patients in states with total abortion bans or telehealth restrictions.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Patients aged 15 years or older seeking medication abortion.

Telehealth model allows for limited contact with facilities and mail-order delivery of medications.

Clinical Best Practices

• Ensure eligibility criteria are met for telehealth medication abortion.
• Provide synchronous care via phone or video for telehealth services.
• Consider patient preferences when designing abortion care approaches.

Related Resources & Content

• Study Reference