Has mifepristone medical abortion expanded abortion access in New Mexico? A survey of OB-GYN and Family Medicine physicians

Abstract

Background: The FDA approval of mifepristone in 2000 broadened the available options for abortion. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether physicians in New Mexico have integrated the use of mifepristone into their practice.

Study design: We performed a mail-out survey of New Mexico Obstetrician Gynecologists (Ob-Gyn) and Family Medicine (FM) physicians in 2001 and 2008. Questions addressed integration of abortion services, attitudes towards providing abortion in different scenarios and barriers to offering abortion services.

Results: The response rates were 59% for the 2001 survey and 54% in 2008. In 2001 and 2008, 11% and 15% (p=.26) of physicians, respectively, provided any abortion - medical or surgical. Similarly, in 2001 and 2008, 5% and 10% (p=.07) provided medical abortion. Commonly cited barriers to provision of abortion in both years were beliefs against abortion and lack of training.

Conclusions: The number of physicians offering any abortion or medical abortion in New Mexico has not changed since the FDA approval of mifepristone. Residency training programs in FM and in Ob-gyn should include training in medical abortion.