DISTANCES TRAVELLED FOR ABORTIONS AND INEQUITIES FOR RURAL RESIDENTS IN OREGON

Abstract

Objectives

Abortion access is dire in most rural areas of the US. Recent studies have shown that most reproductive-aged women live greater than a 30 minute drive from the nearest abortion clinic. True travel distances to abortion care may be even higher, given restrictions in availability by type of abortion and gestational age. This study aims to describe the burden of travel to abortion care for residents of Oregon, a state with no legal restrictions on abortion, by rurality of residence.

Methods

We conducted a descriptive study of vital statistics from the Oregon Health Authority of all abortions in Oregon from 2015 to 2021. We calculated distances between county of residence and county of abortion occurrence.

Results

Of 57,533 abortions, 90% (n=51,781) were to Oregon residents. Individuals from every county in Oregon needed abortion care during our study period, however abortions were provided in only 25% of counties (n=9). Those that travelled outside their county for abortion care (n=21,808, 37.4%) travelled an average of 56 miles for abortion care. Residents of rural counties (n=4,284) had an average travel distance of 103 miles, with maximum distance travelled of 432 miles.

Conclusions

This recent, real-world study describes a high burden of travel for rural residents, even in a state where abortion is legal. This data can support efforts to creatively, strategically, and equitably increase access to abortion, particularly for those with geographic challenges to access.