Missouri to ban telemedicine abortions

[KansDem]

From August 12, 2013

Governor Jay Nixon (D-MO) said this past Friday that he will not sign or veto the latest anti-abortion legislation passed by the Missouri State Legislature and will allow it to passively become law on August 28. Missouri will become the eleventh state to ban telemedicine abortions.

Nixon received praise for his inaction from supporters of the anti-abortion legislation who are saying the new law will better protect the health and safety of women who seek abortions. They said it is important for doctors to physically examine a woman seeking an abortion to reduce the chance for problems.

“It will also, we believe, save the lives of the babies,” said Susan Klein, the legislative liaison for Missouri Right to Life. “Whenever you are going to start a procedure that is going to kill the baby that is growing within the body of the woman, obviously you need to meet with that physician.”

But opponents of the bill contend that drug-induced abortions are safe and the new restrictions, like various restrictions proposed or passed in several conservative-minded states this year, it is another obstacle meant to make it harder for women to get abortions.

--more--
http://www.examiner.com/article/missouri-to-ban-telemedicine-abortions

Telemedicine Abortions: Women who opt for telemedicine abortions answer questions and review their medical histories with a doctor through a two-way video link while a staff member is there with the woman. The physician administers the drug using a computer to remotely open a secure drawer at the health center, and the woman is instructed to take the medication while under the supervision of the doctor and staff member. A second medication is given for her to take at home, and a follow-up visit is scheduled for within two weeks.

I'm not all that knowledgeable about this practice. It appears it would help women in sparsely-populated areas who don't have a lot of health-care options by giving them access to the advantages of a major health center.

[Loudly]

1. A deliberate obstacle dressed up as a measure promoting health and safety.