Doctor-Patient Relationship is Sacrosanct

Oppegaard et al. recently published results from a rigorous randomized-controlled trial comparing an in-person follow-up to home self-assessment after a medical abortion. They found that home self-assessment after early medical abortion is safe. Additionally, women who did not have the routine, in-person follow-up were more satisfied with their care.

3088326355_b7e744c4a8_zIf there are no medical indications for in-person follow-up, researchers determined that patients could be safely managed at home after a medical abortion. The patient and her provider should discuss and determine the best management for the situation.

However, some state legislators are interfering with the patient-physician relationship. They have passed legislation that requires strict adherence to outdated FDA-approved protocol that includes multiple appointments with a physician for medication dispensing and follow-up. More recent evidence has demonstrated smaller doses of medication and fewer in-person visits can improve the safety, decrease the cost, and make this legal procedure more accessible.

This study provides further evidence against mandatory in-person appointments. High-quality care should be about “getting the right care for the right patient at the right time”  in the right setting for the individual patient. Reducing unnecessary visits makes it easier for women to return to their jobs and to care for their families.

Oppegaard, KS, et al. The Lancet. 2015; 365 (9969): 698-704.