"Who is driving you home today?" Escort policies as a barrier to abortion access

Abstract

Post-sedation escort policies are not evidence-based but traditional consensus recommendations made by professional societies. As people travel further for abortion care, escort policies are increasingly difficult to navigate and force people to delay care, compromise privacy, or undergo procedures without sedation. At worst, clinics may turn away people who present without an escort. Recent research shows that patients can be discharged safely after sedation using rideshare or transport services without a known escort. Updating escort policies lowers barriers to abortion and preserves autonomy, comfort, and choice.

Keywords: Abortion; Escort; Regulation; Sedation; Transportation; United States.