HHS: Emergency medical care covers pregnancy termination services

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) earlier this week issued clarifying guidance on the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA) and confirmed it protects providers when offering “legally-mandated, life- or health-saving abortion services in emergency situations.” Other emergency medical conditions involving pregnant patients may include ectopic pregnancy, complications of pregnancy loss or emergent hypertensive disorders, according to the guidance. In addition, HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra sent a letter to providers clarifying that in emergency situations, EMTALA preempts state law restricting access to pregnancy termination services. (HHS news release, 7/11/22)