Conscience clauses, the ability of professionals to “opt out” of performing procedures that they find objectionable are increasingly at risk. The American Bar Association (ABA) opposes “conscience clauses” and regularly works to stop any legislation that would codify the right of professionals to adhere to their personal moral platform.
The movement against the conscience clause is picking up momentum in the international arena as well. United Families International actively watches for and opposes anti-conscience clause language in all proposed UN documents and treaties.
We wanted to pass on some information that comes to us from our friends at Americans United for Life. They warn that there is an effort underway to push OB/Gyn doctors into performing abortions or possibly lose their medical license.
Pro-Life Doctors at risk of Losing their Rights
While many people might think the law protects pro-life doctors and medical personnel from having to perform or provide referrals for abortions, that is in doubt today.
Recently, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) reviewed and reaffirmed the Orwellian sounding Ethics Committee Number 385, which states that physicians have a duty to perform or refer patients for “standard reproductive service.” The rule even suggests that pro-life physicians should relocate in order to be closer to an abortionist to whom they might refer patients.
While ACOG cannot force pro-life doctors to comply, the medical licensing board, the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG), has that power. And ABOG does require compliance with the ACOG rule for doctors who wish to renew their medical licenses.
During the Bush Administration, the Secretary of Health reprimanded ABOG and ACOG when they first attempted this one-two punch to a physician’s right to act according to his or her values. But healthcare providers no longer have the benefit of an administration that will advocate for their right to practice medicine in accordance with their conscience. To read more, click here.