Health care professionals want Biden to support abortion rights.

Health care providers are calling on the Biden administration to take a bold stance on abortion rights beyond what Roe v. Wade offers. Physicians for Reproductive Health, along with 430 physicians, have penned a letter to President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, urging them to push for more comprehensive abortion care and gender-affirming services.

Since the Supreme Court’s decision in 2022 to strip federal protections for abortion, President Biden has been advocating for the restoration of Roe v. Wade, which guaranteed the right to abortion up to 24 weeks. However, many believe that Roe’s limitations allowed for targeted restrictions on abortion providers, hindering access for those who needed care beyond the viability of the fetus.

Prior to Roe v. Wade, individuals seeking abortions often had to travel across state lines for care, facing the risk of criminalization. Over 1,300 abortion restrictions were implemented post-Roe, leading to the closure of numerous clinics and making legal abortion inaccessible in various regions.

The letter to President Biden and Vice President Harris calls for a more progressive approach to abortion rights, emphasizing the importance of looking beyond the confines of Roe v. Wade. The signatories urge policymakers to champion policies that do not simply revert to the limited protections of Roe, but instead strive for more comprehensive solutions that prioritize patient needs.

Advocates for abortion rights have criticized President Biden for not taking a more assertive stance on the issue, particularly in light of the Supreme Court’s decision. The letter also addresses the administration’s approach to gender-affirming care, expressing concern over recent statements opposing such services for minors.

The healthcare providers highlight the stigma and barriers surrounding later abortion care, noting that 1% of abortions occur at 21 weeks or later. Despite being a small percentage, this still equates to around 9,000 individuals seeking later abortions annually for various reasons. The removal of federal protections has exacerbated these barriers, forcing individuals further into pregnancy due to limited access to care.

The letter concludes with a call for compassionate and evidence-based advocacy to support patients in need of care, urging for a legislative landscape that prioritizes the well-being and dignity of all individuals. The signatories hope that their message will inspire change and lead to a future where everyone can thrive.