A university statement shared on July 8, 2022, is included below.
Ohio State remains deeply committed to the health, safety and well-being of our students, faculty, staff, patients and communities and is closely examining the decision from the Supreme Court and changes in state law. If necessary, Ohio State and the medical center will make adjustments to services, course offerings or resources to be in compliance with the law, while continuing to provide exceptional patient care, medical training and conducting innovative research that improves people’s lives. Additionally, we will continue to support the university community through existing resources including the Student Counseling and Consultation Service and our Employee Assistance Program.
During times of change, public universities such as Ohio State play an important role in facilitating dialogue. Consistent with our mission, vision and values, we will look for opportunities for dialogue and engagement while continuing to rely on our shared commitment to considerate discourse.
Additional frequently asked questions are below.
Q: What is the current law restricting abortion in Ohio?
A: Following the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, which overturned Roe vs. Wade, a previously stayed Ohio law went into effect, restricting abortion once a fetal heartbeat has been detected. There is an exception to save the life of the mother. On Wednesday, September 14, 2022, a Hamilton County judge granted a temporary restraining order blocking this Ohio law. The order restores the prior state law allowing access to abortion up to 20 weeks into pregnancy.
Q: How will this impact the university?
A: The university and Wexner Medical Center will continue to comply with state law and make any adjustments as needed.
Q: Are changes to abortion access in Ohio impacting pregnancy care at the Wexner Medical center?
A: Long-standing Ohio law already prohibited state institutions from performing elective abortions. Ohio State is committed to providing exceptional patient care while following state law, which currently provides exceptions for ectopic pregnancy or when the mother’s life is endangered.
Q: Will there be a change in clinical services offered at the Wexner Medical Center or Student Health Services?
A: The Dobbs ruling did not change clinical services offered at the WMC or Student Health Services at Ohio State. Long-standing Ohio law already prohibited state institutions from performing elective abortions.
Q: Will there be any changes to the availability or offering of contraception or emergency contraceptives from the Wexner Medical Center or Student Health Services?
A: No, this does not impact the prescribing of contraceptives.
Q: Will employee or student health insurance coverage change?
A: Before the Dobbs ruling and the Ohio Heartbeat Bill becoming law, long-standing state law prohibited state funds to be used for elective abortions. In compliance with the law, Ohio State’s employee insurance and funded graduate student health insurance plans have not and do not cover elective abortions. More information about student health insurance coverage is available here: https://shi.osu.edu/posts/documents/22-23-1098-special-combined-brochure.pdf. More information about what is covered in Ohio State’s employee insurance plan is available here: https://hr.osu.edu/wp-content/uploads/medical-spd.pdf
Q: How are changes affecting medical student training, specifically OB/GYN resident training?
A: We intend to continue offering the full spectrum of training in reproductive care for those residents who do not opt out of the requirement. In order to ensure we are meeting national accreditation standards on this topic, we are exploring ways for our trainees to do that outside of the State of Ohio. We are also closely following the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, American Medical Association, Association of American Medical Colleges and other professional organizations as they review any potential changes in training requirements.
Q: How are changes affecting recruitment of employees (physicians) and medical students?
A: The inconsistency of laws across the country is a topic of concern among some who are exploring new jobs, residencies and medical schools. We are working with these candidates to help them understand Ohio law and make decisions that are best for them.
Q: Will there be any changes related to the Office of Institutional Equity and Title IX in the handling of reports such as sexual assaults?
A: No. There are no planned changes to Office of Institutional Equity or Title IX processes due to the Dobbs ruling.