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Objectives
To examine factors associated with physicians’ level of concern with, and perceived
consequences of, publicly supporting abortion.
Methods
We surveyed physicians at Wisconsin's largest medical school about their knowledge,
attitudes, and referral practices regarding abortion care from February to May 2019.
Three survey items gauged participant level of concern that taking a strong public
stance on abortion would result in: 1) alienating patients; 2) alienating coworkers;
and 3) harassment or harm from protestors who held opposing views. Among those who
expressed support for abortion (n=701), we analyzed sample characteristics and perceived
concerns about publicly supporting abortion.
Results
Nearly one-quarter (22%) of respondents felt very or extremely concerned that taking
a strong public stance on abortion would alienate patients, and 17% felt very or extremely
concerned that doing so would alienate coworkers. More than one-quarter (27%) felt
very or extremely concerned that publicly supporting abortion would lead to harassment
or harm — including approximately one-third of radiologists (33%), anesthesiologists
(36%), and obstetrician gynecologists (31%), and nearly half (46%) of emergency medicine
physicians. Those with greater concerns about expressing public support for abortion
were comparatively less willing to refer for or participate in abortion care themselves.
Conclusions
Many physicians who support abortion reported worries over publicizing their support
for this common healthcare service. These concerns may render physicians less likely
to refer patients for abortion care or weigh in on abortion policy, as well as undermine
physicians’ potential to be powerful and effective advocates against abortion stigma
and other barriers to abortion access.
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© 2022 Published by Elsevier Inc.
