Distance Traveled for Abortion at a North Carolina Tertiary Care Center Following Restrictive Legislation

Background North Carolina enacted 5 statutes restricting abortion between 2011 and 2016. Our objective was to compare the proportion of women who traveled more than 25 miles a Southern tertiary care center during 2 distinct time periods (2011 2017). Methods We conducted time-series retrospective cohort study obtained an at University hos­pitals in 2017. collected data regarding residence, demographics, gestational age, indication, parity, referral source. primary outcome distance from person’s residence center. Results enrolled 399 women, 139 260 In 2011, 72% (100 139) miles, compared with 75% (195 260) Fewer greater 100 their our clinic (20%) 2017 (26%). neighboring states were seen ( p = .04). Women seeking 4 times less likely have been referred freestanding (9% [13 139] versus 37% [96 260]). Limitations The nature limits generalizability. With time-distinct cohorts, there may be factors that changed over period remain unaccounted for. Conclusions A similar for before after legislative changes. finding obtain highlights key burden ac­cess Carolina. increased number centers following changes important geographical potentially associated strict restrictions.