The Role of Advanced Practice Clinicians in the Availability of Abortion Services in the United States

Although abortion is one of the most common surgical procedures performed in the United States, the number of abortion providers is declining. Advanced practice clinicians, including nurse practitioners and certified nurse‐midwives, may help to alleviate this shortage. However, some states bar nonphysicians from performing abortions. Not only should training in abortion techniques be made available to nonphysician providers who desire it, but legal obstacles must also be overcome in order to allow advanced practice clinicians the right to provide abortion services.