‘Timely and safe’ abortion services available for majority, GPs say

Health Minister Stephen Donnelly said he wants to 'make sure we are doing the right thing by women'. Picture: Brian Lawless

GPs have moved to reassure women that “timely and safe” abortion services are available to the majority, despite challenges in the sector.

This follows RTÉ Investigates highlighting obstacles, including rogue counselling agencies.

The Southern Task Group on Abortion and Reproductive Topics, which supports GPs across Ireland providing terminations, said the programme “rightly highlighted” concerns.

“Community-based early medical abortions offer a compassionate and supportive environment for women seeking abortion services, and we remain dedicated to ensuring that all women have access to the care they need when they need it,” a spokeswoman said.

“While there are some geographical variations in provider distribution, the majority of women seeking abortion care from GPs can access timely and safe services, ensuring their reproductive healthcare needs are met.”

They are committed to improving access, she said.

Dr Mark Murphy, a GP with the task group, said the service relies on volunteerism which is not sustainable.

Echoing this, the group’s spokeswoman said: “The education and peer support for abortion care providers should now be formalised and fully funded by the HSE, along with the appointment of a GP clinical lead in abortion.”

The sometimes punitive impact of the three-day mandatory wait between appointments and an abortion was also raised.

Health Minister Stephen Donnelly said the requirement for two GP appointments now includes the option of a phone call and one meeting.

“When it comes to things which are in conflict with the heads of the bill that people voted to repeal based on, that is an ongoing conversation in Government,” he said.

“I want to make sure we are doing the right thing by women, and we need to facilitate our healthcare workers to the greatest extent possible. We have to also be very cognisant and respectful, regardless of our individual feelings on different elements, of what people voted for.”

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