Examining patient experience with telehealth medication abortion through an equity lens
Abortion
Awarded 2025
Understanding people's experiences with remote provision of medication abortion
Emily Godfrey, MD, MPH
University of Washington
$499,999

This survey-based research study examines the patient experience with varied telehealth medication abortion service delivery models in the United States. Access to abortion services is increasingly restricted, making telehealth medication abortion a critical component of reproductive healthcare. This study builds on existing evidence that highlights safety, effectiveness, and high satisfaction rates associated with telehealth medication abortion, but seeks to better understand how patient experience varies based on the delivery model of telehealth and the patient’s social location.
This study will investigate the following:

  • Patient-centeredness of different telehealth medication abortion models, such as synchronous (video) and asynchronous (secure messaging) platforms, using the validated patient-centered abortion care scale for medication abortion
  • Patient experience with specific service features, including patient engagement, consultation and information provision, cost and payment, medication delivery, and follow-up care.
  • The impact of patient social location, including age, race and ethnicity, and geographic location, on the telehealth medication abortion experience.

We will create and distribute a survey among patients who have received telehealth medication abortion services, with the alternative approach of retrospective surveys and clinical data review if telehealth services should be suspended due to changes in the legal landscape. The survey will be administered through partnerships with at least six abortion clinics that offer telehealth medication abortion. The study’s focus on varied service delivery models allows for a nuanced understanding of patient experiences and preferences. Our findings will inform clinical practice and abortion policy, ultimately supporting efforts to optimize access to satisfactory and equitable abortion care.