Date of Publication
1-29-2025
Abstract
Background: Since the 2022 Dobbs decision there has been an increase in self-managed medication abortions, out of state travel to obtain abortions, and heightened burden in states where abortion remains legal. Concurrently, applications to OBGYN residency programs in abortion-restricted states declined. There is a need to understand medical provider preparedness and willingness to manage complications of self-managed abortions, and to examine the potential impacts to healthcare workforce development. Methods: Surveys were developed for practicing health professionals and trainees, with input from representatives of the target audiences. Surveys were distributed to Vermont Primary Care Providers (PCPs), including MDs, APRNs, and PAs, as well as medical trainees (UVM medical students and residents). Data were analyzed using Stata analytical software and Excel. Results: We explored generational differences in attitudes regarding reproductive healthcare. Younger generations reported greater familiarity with potential complications following a medication abortion, stronger interest in learning more about these complications, and a greater willingness to expand their scope of practice to ensure safe access to care while PCPs born between 1945-1964 (Baby Boomers) reported less familiarity and interest. Respondents reported that state-based reproductive policies influence their decisions regarding where they would practice. Conclusion: These data highlight the influence of reproductive healthcare policy on the career decisions of current and future healthcare providers, and underscore the impacts on provider scope of practice, training priorities, and career decisions across generations. Adapting PCP training and continuing education to respond to emerging legislation will be required to ensure access to safe reproductive healthcare.
Advisor(s)
Charles MacLean, PhD
Larner College of Medicine
Elizabeth Cote
Vermont Area Health Education Centers
Agency
Vermont Area Health Education Centers
Subjects
Health Policy, Women, Social Determinants of Health, Pregnancy and Childbirth, Access to Health Services, Family Planning
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 3.0 License
Recommended Citation
Pudi, Varsha; Bates, Jeremiah; Woo, Jonathon; Reed, Kristin; Kent, Ian; Koch, Oliver; Khoo, Nicholas; and Tarrant, Claudia, "Healthcare Workforce Implications of State Reproductive Health Policies" (2025). Public Health Projects, 2008-present. 326.
https://scholarworks.uvm.edu/comphp_gallery/326
