Texas Medical Board Adopts Abortion Guidance For Doctors, Drawing Criticism

Texas' medical watchdog releases guidelines on abortions, despite near-universal criticism from OB-GYNs, citing legal constraints

The Texas Medical Board on Friday adopted regulatory guidance on abortions, despite widespread criticism from Texas OB-GYNs. The new rules aim to clarify the state's narrow medical exceptions for abortions, but physicians argue they create further hurdles for women in need of emergency care.

The initial proposal, first introduced in March, stated that doctors were required to document their transfer and alternative treatment efforts to avoid performing an abortion. In response, OB-GYNs warned that these requirements could lead to delays in lifesaving care.

While the new rules no longer formally mandate such documentation, they specify that reviewers will consider these factors, including the transfer of patients, alternative treatments, and the use of "medical ethics committees," when evaluating complaints. Physicians now have seven days to provide documentation justifying an emergency abortion.

Texas law, as affirmed by the state Supreme Court, prohibits abortions except when a pregnant patient has a life-threatening condition.

"The Board acknowledges and respects that this rule may not answer the concerns and questions that arise in every single situation," board Chair Dr. Sherif Zaafran said. "The reality is that the Board can only act where it has the authority... however, [these rules] provide physicians with valuable guidance on how they can successfully navigate any complaints."

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URLs referenced:

• Doctors required to document: https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/24498236-tac-22-new-ss1657-1659
• Texas Medical Board new rules: https://www.tmb.state.tx.us/idl/1C5CBA1C-052B-403F-A0D1-FAF22ADD05CB