Australian women won't have to talk face-to-face about their abortion plans, nor will they have to face anyone at all, since one foundation's plan gives women the power to order an abortion kit right over the phone, according to the Sydney Morning Herald.
The Tabbot Foundation of Australia will soon be offering phone consultations with women who seek an abortion. The foundation says that in-person examinations are not always needed and that the phone strategy works on different levels.
"Medical pregnancy termination through teleconference is one of the most appropriate medical conditions you can use this for because you don't have to examine the patient," said a spokesperson with the foundation. "It will also mean women who might have felt intimidated going into an abortion clinic don't have to."
The self-abortion kit would cost $250 and include everything needed for the at-home procedure, including antibiotics, painkillers, anti-nausea medication and two drugs called mifepristone and misoprostol, according to Fox News.
Psychological tests would also be done over the phone for areas where that is required, even nurse check-ups following the abortion to make sure the patient is OK.
Jenny Eljak, president of Reproductive Choice Australia, spoke to the Brisbane Times about the foundation's decision and how it helps both doctors and patients paralyzed by public stigma.
"Access to abortion in many states and territories has been really difficult for a very long time," she said. "...Many health professionals are very reluctant to get involved in abortion cases because they know there's a significant backlash."
She believes the telephone option is a viable alternative for Australian women.
