The Iowa Board of Medicine approved a rule this afternoon which would in effect prohibit “webcam” abortions. Adopted by an 8 to 2 vote, the rule would require a physician to be physically present with the woman while abortion drugs are being provided, rather than pushing a button following a remote video consultation. The rule is set to become effective Nov. 6 since a rule doesn’t take effect until 35 days after its publication which will be on October 2.
Jenifer Bowen of Iowa Right to Life in an email sent to supporters said, “Since 2010, over 27,300 Iowans have signed our petitions requesting the State end the practice of webcam abortion. It is abundantly clear Iowans stand behind the physicians requesting this rule and the Board of Medicine’s decision to adopt it. We commend them for acting today to raise the standard of care and protect countless women from this method of abortion.”
Tom Chapman, Executive Director of the Iowa Catholic Conference, in a released statement said, “The ICC supports the rule. When abortions are taking place, the safety and informed consent of the women involved should be among our chief concerns. In every case, drugs that cause a chemical abortion have serious effects.”
Michael J. Norton, senior counsel for Alliance Defending Freedom, said in a released statement, “Planned Parenthood and other abortionists should be accountable to basic health and medical standards. That at least includes a licensed professional personally meeting with women who are considering such a serious and potentially life-altering act. That’s why we commend the Iowa Board of Medicine for caring more about the health and safety of mothers than about the profits Planned Parenthood obtains through ‘webcam’ abortions. Chemical abortions pose serious health risks to women, so their care should not be taken lightly. No matter where people stand on abortion, all should be able to agree on that.”
