This mixed-methods study aims to document and analyze the experiences of patients accessing medication abortion through Abuzz, an innovative telehealth abortion provider operating under interstate shield laws. Since its launch in June 2023, Abuzz has pioneered a patient-centered, trauma-informed model of remote abortion care delivery, particularly focused on serving the needs of patients who hold marginalized identities across 46 states.

Our project will examine who seeks care from Abuzz and how their experiences vary by social and geographic location through 1) A quantitative analysis of patient intake data and online surveys to understand demographics, decision-making factors, and service delivery experiences, including Abuzz’s sliding-scale fee model; and 2) In-depth interviews with Abuzz patients, focusing particularly on those from ban states and those most harmed by systems of oppression.
The study will be conducted in partnership with a community advisory-committee to ensure the research centers the needs and perspectives of the communities most impacted by abortion restrictions. Key outcomes will include detailed characterization of patient trajectories, barriers and facilitators to care, support needs, and will examine variations in experience based on social and geographic location.

This study will provide critical insights into the experiences of patients accessing abortion care through the unique model of shield law abortion care that Abuzz offers. Results of this research will contribute to the identification best practices for serving patients in an increasingly restricted abortion access landscape, with particular attention to the needs of those most harmed by systems of oppression and those living in ban states.