ACOG Statement on June Medical Services v. Russo

Washington, DC – The following is a statement from Maureen G. Phipps, MD, MPH, FACOG, chief executive officer of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, on today’s decision from the U.S. Supreme Court in the case of June Medical Services, LLC, v. Russo:

“Today, obstetrician-gynecologists from around the country celebrate the Supreme Court’s decision that will help protect the ability of their patients to receive essential care and that affirms physicians’ roles in advocating for their patients. Once again, just as in 2016, the Court has declared that placing onerous, unreasonable requirements on physicians and clinicians who provide abortion creates an unconstitutional burden on patients in violation of the U.S.  Constitution.

“ACOG is grateful that the Court continues to consider the expert views of the nation’s medical community, citing the brief we led with 13 other major medical organizations in recognizing that ‘local admitting-privileges requirements for abortion providers offer no medical benefit and do not meaningfully advance continuity of care.’ We are also encouraged that the Court appreciates the patient-physician relationship, which includes for the ability of physicians to advocate in all ways for the health and well-being of their patients, including in the courts. 

“ACOG has long led the medical community in opposing burdensome requirements on clinicians who provide essential care, including abortion. Such restrictions do nothing to protect or advance patient safety. As our brief explained, abortion is a very safe medical procedure, and restricting access only makes our patients less safe by forcing them to delay needed abortions or forego them altogether. 

“Today’s decision once again affirms that abortion access is a constitutionally protected right. While we celebrate the decision, we also know that access to care continues to be delayed or denied for many women due to systemic inequities and inequalities. We therefore urge legislators to build on the Court’s decision and drive policy solutions that will advance equitable care across the country. ACOG and its members will continue to advocate at every level to enhance our patients’ ability to access quality, essential care.”