By Felipe on November 08th, 2023. Posted under: 2023, Blog Post, Featured Article
Acknowledgements: MSFC leaders across Massachusetts medical schools.
Since the overturning of Roe v. Wade in June 2022, access to abortion has been severely limited across the United States. The increasing state-led criminalization of abortion is forcing thousands of people to travel hundreds or even thousands of miles to receive essential abortion services. As medical students in Massachusetts, we feel that it is important to consider where gaps exist in abortion care and how we can best bridge these gaps in care as we train in a state with many protections for abortion care.
Not all states where abortion is legal, provide comparable insurance coverage for abortion care. Eleven states have laws in effect that prevent private insurance companies from covering abortion care; 22 states restrict coverage for public employees; and, 25 states have restrictions on abortion coverage for plans through health insurance exchanges. Additionally, insurance companies can independently decide what type of abortion care to cover, and often reimbursing at rates too low to sustain abortion providers. This has led to fewer clinics being able to accept insurance in recent years.
Financial barriers prevent many patients from accessing abortion care, even in states where abortion is legal. As the Hyde Amendment prevents the use of federal funds for abortion care, patients covered by Medicaid, patients who are federally employed, patients insured through the military, and patients receiving care through the Indian Health Services are prohibited from accessing insurance-covered abortion care. Though some states have elected to cover abortion services in their own statewide health insurance plans, such as MassHealth in Massachusetts, this is rare and relies on ever-changing political norms and legislation.
MassHealth and state-mandated coverage of abortion services helps many residents pay for care. 2022 laws shield providers from laws in other states, regardless of patient location. This is imperative to protect providers who prescribe medication abortion via telehealth. The Obstetrics and Gynecology Department at UMass Chan in Worcester proposed a plan to introduce self-pay options for procedural abortions, which is now being finalized. They hope to propose a similar self-pay plan for medication abortions in the near future. Low-income patients are able to take advantage of discounts proportional to their income. Even with discounts, however, the procedures can be prohibitively expensive. The estimated prices range from $3,000 to $15,000 with the highest discount, $7,000 to $31,000 with the lowest discount, and $12,000 to $52,000 without a discount. A representative of the program stated that self-pay options are primarily offered to out-of-state patients who cannot use their insurance or are not insured. Other hospital systems offering self-pay include Boston Medical Center.
Many academic medical centers do not offer self-pay options for medication or procedural abortion care. While other centers only have self-pay options for medication abortion, such as Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. Patients presenting to these locations in need of self-pay options are usually directed to local Planned Parenthood clinics or other independent abortion facilities in the state.
The Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts (PPLM) has standardized state-wide self-pay options for both medication and procedural abortions up to a gestational age of 20 weeks and 6 days. The cost of an abortion at PPLM increases with increasing gestational age, from $700 for an abortion up to eleven weeks gestational age to $1400 for an abortion up to 20 weeks gestational age. Beyond 20 weeks, PPLM refers the patient to a hospital system that is able to provide complex abortion care.
Self-pay packages for abortion services are one way to bridge the abortion care coverage gap and provide more access to care to uninsured or underinsured patients, patients whose insurance does not cover abortion services, and those traveling for care. Self-pay packages are predetermined prices for select services. For abortion, these include medication and procedural costs, varying by factors such as location of services and pregnancy gestation. A study of self-pay packages from 2017 to 2020 found that the median cost of medication abortion and first-trimester procedural abortion increased from $495 to $560 and from $475 to $575, respectively. Second-trimester abortion cost decreased from $935 to $895. This study also found that health insurance coverage for abortion care began declining across many states from 2017 to 2020.
In 2021, a Federal Reserve survey showed that 1 in 4 Americans could not cover a $400 emergency expense, less than the cost of the average U.S. self-pay abortion. Patients cannot postpone an abortion to save up without compromising access to care by progressing further into an unwanted pregnancy.
Community-based abortion funds have attempted to fill this gap. Abortion funds are small organizations, usually led by small staff and volunteers, that collect donations from grassroots fundraising, institutional donors, and grants. In 2020, the National Network of Abortion Funds found that over 220,000 people requested help from its member abortion funds, and over 190,000 were given some level of funding. On average, patients were given $215 to cover abortion costs. To use this funding, patients most often must receive care at a clinic that has a “self-pay” option for which the clinic can accept pledges from the abortion funds for payment. This works well for clinics that have standard prices that they can quote patients. However, this model fails when a patient is seen at a clinic that does not have transparent pricing and a “self-pay” option.
As providers seek to make abortion accessible in the post-Roe era, they must consider how patients pay for these services. For those traveling from restrictive states, self-pay becomes the lifeline to essential care. As clinicians strive to provide abortions to all patients in need throughout the US in the post-Roe era, self-pay options must be made more available to remove financial barriers to essential medical care.
From left to right: Jill Jones, Katherine Wasden, Aisvarya (Ash) Panakam, Anna Roselle
By Felipe on October 26th, 2023. Posted under: 2023, Blog Post, Featured Article, News and Views
Hello, I am Gaston Ndagijimana, a third-year medical student at the University of Rwanda, and an active member of MSFC Rwanda. MSFC stands for Medical Students For Choice, and I am part of the Huye Chapter. In this blogpost, I’ll share my experiences and insights from the MSFC East Africa Regional Meeting, held in Kigali, Rwanda, on the 26th of August 2023.
About the MSFC East Africa Regional Meeting
Every two years, medical students from the East African region come together at the MSFC East Africa Regional Meeting. This meeting serves as a platform for students to discuss critical topics related to Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) and exchange expertise. It equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to become future leaders in the field of comprehensive reproductive healthcare, including safe abortion care.
Activities at the Regional Meeting
- Panel Discussions: The meeting featured panel discussions where experts, healthcare providers, activists, and students shared their perspectives and knowledge on SRH. These discussions were invaluable for gaining diverse insights and ideas.
- MVA Safe Abortion Simulation Training: One of the highlights for me was the MVA Safe Abortion simulation training. It provided me with practical skills and knowledge in safe abortion care through interactive learning and hands-on activities.
- Networking and Collaboration: The event facilitated networking and collaboration opportunities with both international and local participants. Building professional relationships is vital for advancing our common goals.
- Keynote Presentations: We had the privilege of listening to representatives from MSFC chapters across different countries. They shared the achievements and operations of their chapters, which were both inspiring and enlightening.
Making a Difference in Reproductive Healthcare
These activities play a pivotal role in advancing reproductive healthcare rights and access. Panel discussions and training equip students with the knowledge and skills to be champions of comprehensive reproductive healthcare. Networking enhances collaboration, which is crucial in advocating for improved reproductive healthcare services.
Overcoming Challenges
Challenges are an integral part of such conferences. Language barriers and logistical issues were among the challenges. However, these challenges were overcome through teamwork, patience, and adaptability.
Impact on Healthcare Services
The knowledge and skills gained from the conference will undoubtedly have a positive impact on both patients and students. As future healthcare providers, we are better equipped to provide safe and comprehensive reproductive healthcare services.
Advice to Students Interested in establishing an MSFC Chapter at their Medical School
Gaston Ndagijimana, third-year medical student at the University of Rwanda.
For students interested in starting an MSFC chapter at their medical school, my advice is simple: be passionate, persistent, and collaborative. These qualities are essential for driving positive change in the field of reproductive healthcare.
In conclusion, the MSFC East Africa Regional Meeting was a transformative experience. It equipped us with the knowledge, skills, and motivation to be advocates for reproductive healthcare rights and access. Together, we can shape a future with universal access to Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights, comprehending safe abortion.
Thank you for joining me on this journey to empower medical students for reproductive healthcare.
By Felipe on September 21st, 2023. Posted under: 2023, Blog Post, Featured Article
International Safe Abortion Day 2023 marks a crucial moment in our ongoing fight for reproductive justice. This year’s theme, “Call to Action! Unstoppable Movement: Movement building, solidarity, and justice for the right to safe abortion,” resonates deeply with our mission at Medical Students for Choice (MSFC). Access to safe abortion is a human right that must be protected and expanded. The consequences of restricted access are dire, affecting the health, well-being, and autonomy of individuals around the world. We cannot afford to stand idly by while lives are at stake.
Building an Unstoppable Movement
At MSFC, we believe that knowledge is power. By educating ourselves and our communities about the realities of unsafe abortion, we can break down stigma and misinformation. We recognize that the fight for safe abortion is interconnected with other struggles for reproductive justice, gender equality, and social equity.
This International Safe Abortion Day, commit to being a vocal advocate for evidence-based, compassionate reproductive healthcare. Join forces with like-minded organizations and individuals to amplify our collective voice.
Policy Engagement
Advocate for policies that safeguard the right to safe abortion and engage with local and national lawmakers to make your voice heard. Being a vocal advocate includes supporting legislation that removes barriers to access and working to repeal restrictive laws that endanger lives.
MSFC chapters are taking an active stance in legislative advocacy. The chapter at Creighton University School of Medicine has been sending chapter members to the Capitol to protest bills that could limit reproductive health access. These students are leading by example, demonstrating the importance of engaging in local politics to protect healthcare rights.
Medical students are participating in public hearings, writing letters to senators, and organizing grassroots efforts to raise awareness about the impact of certain bills on healthcare access. They’re showing that healthcare providers, even in training, have a powerful voice in shaping policies that affect patient care.
The University of North Carolina School of Medicine chapter rallied to sustain the veto of SB20 signed by Governor Roy Cooper. UNC attendings and residents joined students.
The University of North Carolina School of Medicine chapter members at the rally to sustain the veto of SB20. Taken from @msfc_uncsom
Providing Supportive Healthcare
Future healthcare professionals are crucial in ensuring access to safe abortion services. By creating safe spaces for dialogue, we can reduce stigma and empower individuals to make informed decisions about their bodies. Foster open, honest conversations about reproductive health within your communities. As you advance in your medical journey, commit to providing non-judgmental, evidence-based care that centers on the autonomy and well-being of your patients.
Promoting Justice and Equity
Recognize and actively work to address the disparities in access to safe abortion care. Advocate for policies and programs prioritizing marginalized communities and ensuring that everyone, regardless of socio-economic status, can exercise their right to safe abortion.
Stand up against discrimination and stigma surrounding abortion. Being an impactful advocate includes advocating for comprehensive sexuality education, which empowers individuals with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.
Why MSFC’s Work is Relevant
In a world where access to safe abortion is often met with barriers, MSFC’s work is more relevant than ever. We are part of a global movement dedicated to ensuring that every individual has the right to make informed choices about their bodies and futures. Our work directly impacts the lives of those who may otherwise be denied access to safe and legal abortion services.
Medical students during an In-Person Abortion Training Institute learn how to perform a Manual Vacuum Aspiration (MVA). Students use the MVA procedure to remove the pulp and seeds, which simulate suctioning the products of conception from the uterus.
Let’s become an unstoppable force for change. Help us make reproductive healthcare education accessible for all medical students by becoming a sustaining donor by setting up a monthly recurring gift.
We can continue to build a movement grounded in solidarity, compassion, and justice. We are committed to fighting for the right to safe abortion for all. Join us to create a future where every individual has the opportunity to make decisions about their bodies and lives.
By Felipe on August 22nd, 2023. Posted under: 2023, Blog Post, Featured Article
I am Julius Nyanda, an intern doctor and student leader of the MSFC chapter at Kabale University in Uganda.
Starting a chapter might always be challenging, especially in the African setting; however, believing in the cause is important.
Overcoming Challenges
We carried out many activities, from attempting curriculum reform to addressing the stigma against post-abortion care provision.
We’ve had trouble with on campus pro-life groups and continue to face this challenge. In a bid to surmount this challenge, through resources from MSFC and Catholics for Choice, we ran video screening sessions for a better understanding of our work and to clear the abortion myths while respecting religious affiliations. The screenings have been key in persuading many more members to join our movement.
The desire to address the many religious myths associated with abortion care provision and to win over the on campus pro-life groups who have been a great hinderance to our work is itself a big motivation, in addition to the significant interest in community transformation through advocacy.
Memorable Moments
Getting these groups to join the movement has been fulfilling because of the realization within these groups that joining the movement does not mean forfeiting one’s religious affiliation. We were similarly to disband some of the cultural beliefs.
The screenings add to our recruitment drive and earn us the confidence and community trust that is very important in furthering our advocacy work in reproductive health justice.
Many of our screenings have yet to be rolled out to the entire student community. Still, we intend to extend the opportunity in the future so that they all understand that religious affiliations should not be a hinderance to advocacy for choice.
Cultivating Change
By addressing the religious misconceptions and opposition, we will have a solid ground in furthering our advocacy work and, in the long run, reduce the stigma around abortion care.
Kabale University Library. Photo by Atuha, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
By Felipe on July 17th, 2023. Posted under: 2023, Featured Article
My name is Catherine Stratis, and I’m a third-year medical student at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. I was one of the leaders of Sinai’s chapter of MSFC from Spring 2022-Spring 2023. I am also one of the founding members of the MSFC NYC coalition.
Voices of Courage
The Voices of Courage benefit, hosted by Physicians for Reproductive Health, was dedicated to amplifying the voices of physicians actively fighting against the criminalization of reproductive healthcare throughout our country, loud and proud in the face of danger and injustice. The topic was timely and of the utmost importance.
Being in a room surrounded by dedicated abortion providers and activists was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. I knew that I would not only learn so much from being there, listening to the speakers, and observing the interactions between people holding different roles in this movement, but also have a fantastic time – and John Oliver making an appearance was a bonus!
John Oliver speaking at the Voices of Courage: Care is Not a Crime Benefit
Memorable Moments
I remember arriving at the event with my fellow MSFC NYC members and looking at each other in complete awe and disbelief that we were there. The venue, City Winery, was located on the West Side Highway on the Hudson River; this sophisticated, swanky spot complemented and enhanced the event’s grandeur.
Once we all sat at our table in the main room, we realized that we were the only medical students present. We felt both out of place and a sense of belonging, waiting for our turn to do this work as physicians in training. We made a toast to MSFC, sipped on wine, and enjoyed charcuterie boards. Several times during the presentations, my MSFC colleagues and I looked at each other with a shared understanding of feeling inspired and grateful to be there. It was surreal.
Voices of Impact
The two honorees, Dr. Bhavik Kumar and Dr. DeShawn Taylor, each shared their unique journeys as abortion providers and pearls of wisdom.
A family medicine physician who advocates for access to abortion and trans healthcare, Dr. Kumar was a sort of accidental activist; he became the go-to abortion provider for interviews with news outlets – first locally, then nationally. He was able to break down and communicate Supreme Court and state policies in a digestible way to the general public, making this information more broadly accessible. Based in Texas, he acknowledged how having a platform that promotes abortion care puts his life at risk, as several physicians have been physically harmed, even killed, for doing what is right.
A Black woman and abortion clinic owner in Arizona, Dr. Taylor amplified the struggles of patients of color and low-income patients, who are disproportionately harmed by abortion restrictions. She spoke about the importance of looking at the people sitting at the table and making every effort to ensure that the table is diverse and inclusive – we cannot provide care to those who are marginalized without having people from marginalized backgrounds leading the way.
I can only hope to have half of the impact these brave, humble, radically compassionate physicians have had on their patients, in protecting access to abortion, and in advancing reproductive justice. All medical students should take note of the wisdom they imparted that day and incorporate these messages into their politics and medical practice.
Embracing Unity and Mentorship
Attending the event with the other medical students was a significant experience. I have gotten to know them over the past year through our education and policy reform programs efforts, so going to this event was a celebration of the work we have already done and a preview of the future work we hope to do. Dr. Antonetti, an abortion provider we have worked with to plan reproductive health and abortion ethics panels at Sinai, is a role model to us. At the event, she introduced us to other physicians and healthcare professionals, who thanked us for taking the initiative as medical students and made us feel like valued members of this community of abortion advocates.
Collaborating and Igniting Change
Events like the Voices of Courage benefit have enormous potential for connection, collaboration, and education.
- They are instrumental in networking and coalition building, allowing physicians, physicians in training, activists, and supporters to meet and share ideas, planting the seeds for future collective action.
- They excite medical students for what’s to come, encouraging their involvement and further engagement in the field, and introduce students to potential mentors to guide their efforts.
- They unite various stakeholders in the movement under a common purpose – spotlighting honorable physicians who serve as examples and inspirations to others.
- They also attract folks advocating for parallel, intersecting causes, incorporating racial justice, gender-affirming care, trauma-informed care, and health equity.
Finally, these events boost morale and allow attendees to let their hair down and recharge, while enjoying the comedic stylings of John Oliver. At the risk of sounding cliché, this work is a marathon, not a sprint; we should celebrate the more minor victories along the way and give credit where credit is due.
Left to Right: Barbara Pereira Vera, Agathe de Pins, Daniel Baboolal, Sarah McNeilly, Catherine Stratis, Anne Lally, and Julia Zimmerman
For Those Who Could Not Attend
I would share Dr. Kumar and Dr. Taylor’s messages with them, and I would tell them to be like our MC for the evening, Olivia Julianna. Olivia Julianna was disgustingly body-shamed on social media by U.S. Representative Matt Gaetz, a Republican from Florida. She used this attention online to raise over 2 million dollars in support of abortion access in a week through her fundraising campaign “Gen Z for Change.” At only 20 years old, Olivia Julianna demonstrates wit, maturity, and conviction in fighting for reproductive rights in an intersectional manner. She shows us that it’s never too early to start being vocal about what you believe in and becoming involved in activism on a grander scale.
As medical students, there is a myriad of ways for us to advocate for reproductive justice and empower patients – through fundraising for organizations that assist patients financially and logistically in obtaining abortions, raising awareness about state abortion restrictions on campus, filling gaps in your school’s abortion curriculum, participating in MSFC and Physicians for Reproductive Health events, and more. I would definitely encourage other students to attend this event next year!
Shaping a Future in Reproductive Healthcare
My experience at the benefit strengthened my desire to pursue a career in reproductive healthcare. It increased my excitement at the possibility of joining this community of physicians protecting reproductive rights and promoting reproductive justice. It gave me hope for the future — that positive change can happen, that abortion access can be expanded, bodily autonomy can be protected, abortion bans can be reversed, and healthcare can be made more equitable. I look forward to learning from all these inspirational healthcare professionals and activists and working towards these goals together.
By Felipe on May 30th, 2023. Posted under: 2023, Blog Post, Featured Article
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and at Medical Students for Choice, we firmly believe that a comprehensive approach to healthcare must address mental health.
The 2023 theme is “More Than Enough”
This year, the theme for Mental Health Awareness Month is “More Than Enough.” As stated by the National Alliance on Mental Illness, this campaign serves as a beacon of hope and inclusion. It reminds us that all individuals, regardless of where they are on their mental health journey, deserve support, resources, fulfillment, and a caring community.
As we advocate for reproductive justice, we know that mental health is integral to reproductive healthcare. Individuals seeking abortion care often face challenges that deserve our attention. It is essential to address these issues in the provision of care.
Access to safe, legal, and comprehensive reproductive healthcare is a fundamental human right.
Photo via National Alliance on Mental Illness
Reproductive Justice
We must listen and learn from the lived experiences of those seeking reproductive healthcare. By centering their stories and perspectives, we can better understand the intersectionality of mental health and reproductive justice. These learnings will lead us to more comprehensive care that meets the unique needs of each individual.
Advocacy for reproductive justice must extend beyond the clinical setting. It involves engaging with community organizations, movements, and policy initiatives that address systemic issues. By collaborating with other healthcare professionals, activists, and advocates, we can collectively work towards dismantling oppressive structures and creating a more just and equitable healthcare system.
Abortion Bans and Restrictions
We understand the emotional toll providing reproductive healthcare in places with high restrictions on abortion care can take on individuals. It’s crucial to regularly check in with yourself, seeking support from trusted friends, family, or mental health professionals. Forge connections with like-minded colleagues and organizations to create a sense of community and support in this vital work.
Remember, you are not alone! It’s okay to ask for help or take a well-deserved break when needed. Your impact on the lives of patients seeking reproductive justice is profound. By prioritizing and checking in on your mental health, you ensure you can continue to provide care that makes a difference.
We have a unique opportunity to advocate for better access to mental health services and ensure that clinical practice integrates mental health. Let us stand united in our commitment to reproductive justice, amplifying voices, and advancing equity in healthcare.
No one should ever doubt their worth or feel alone on their journey. We are here to ensure that every individual, every voice, and every mental health experience is acknowledged, respected, and valued.
By Felipe on April 20th, 2023. Posted under: 2023, Featured Article
My name is Alexis Zachem and I am a third-year medical student at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and former chapter president of Medical Students for Choice.
The Reproductive Health Services Training and Education Grant Program
New York City MSFC chapters have been working with Assemblyman Harvey Epstein and Senator Liz Krueger to support their reproductive health services training and education grant program which would provide funding for medical students, residents, and other trainees in abortion-restricted states to come to New York for abortion training.
Assemblyman Epstein had the idea of hosting a press conference in Albany in support of the program and invited chapter members of MSFC to come and speak in support of the program in order to emphasize the importance of the program in the state budget. I was so excited to be included and have the opportunity to take a day trip to Albany to meet MSFC chapter members from Albany Medical College there! I was able to speak at the press conference and do my best to explain why this program is so important for expanding access to abortion training for providers throughout the country. I was also able to meet fellow MSFC members from Albany!
Alexis Zachem speaks at the press conference hosted by Assemblyman Harvey Epstein and Senator Liz Krueger in Albany.
Abortion Training for All
This program will benefit medical students and advanced practice clinicians throughout the country. In New York State specifically, we are fortunate enough to receive abortion training at our home institutions. By allowing students and clinicians from abortion-restricted states to come train alongside us we will be able to hear about their experiences and learn how to be better advocates and clinicians alongside them.
The Importance of an Abortion Training Program
It is incredibly important to establish this program to ensure that our colleagues in abortion-restricted states receive adequate abortion training so that they are able to provide patients with comprehensive care at the highest possible level. It is especially important if these clinicians hope to practice in a state with less restrictive laws or if one day (hopefully) all states become less restrictive. It would be devastating to have an entire cohort of clinicians not adequately trained if (and when) that time comes. This program is vital because coming to New York for training is expensive and that can be the limiting factor for many clinicians to train outside of your state for the month, you are responsible for rent at home, rent in a new city, transportation, and more (on a student or resident budget!).
Advocacy of MSFC
As a representative from MSFC, I spoke to the need for this program from the perspective of a current medical student and future OB/GYN resident. I explained the financial burden of paying to come to New York as one of the main barriers to medical students and residents in abortion-restricted states coming to New York for training. By speaking at the press conference, we showed the governor how important it is to support this program in the state budget.
Overcoming Challenges
There are a myriad of important things that deserve state funding, and for that reason legislators and advocates are doing our best to show the governor why this program deserves a spot in the budget.
This program will improve the quality of care provided to patients across the country. It will allow providers to receive training at our amazing institutions in New York and move forward in their practice with these skills.
What’s Next
Sign our petition and advocate to your local legislator! The more attention we can draw to this program, the better.
Alexis Zachem’ Statement:
“My name is Alexis Zachem, and I am a third-year medical student and chapter leader of Medical Students for Choice at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City. I am here with fellow chapter members of Medical Students for Choice from medical schools throughout the state of New York in support of the establishment of a reproductive health services training and education program in the New York State Budget.
Following the Dobbs decision, many hospitals which previously offered abortion training have been forced to halt their activities. I am very grateful for the education I have received regarding abortion and would like to ensure that physicians and physicians-in-training across the country, especially those in abortion-restricted states, have access to similar training.
This program would afford the next generation of abortion providers the opportunity to come to New York and learn skills necessary to provide safe and comprehensive care to their patients.
As medical students, we stand with all medical residents and abortion providers throughout the country. By establishing the reproductive health training fund, New York can continue to be a leader in protecting the integrity of abortion training for medical students and residents, which will safeguard patient and population health.”
By Felipe on April 06th, 2023. Posted under: 2023, Blog Post
April 6, 2023
The passage of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation in Ghana, eastern Europe, Uganda, and the United States represents a significant setback for human rights and bodily autonomy. Medical Students for Choice condemns these attacks and stands in solidarity with our LGBTQ+ members and allies across the globe. We reaffirm our commitment to advocating for comprehensive reproductive and LGBTQ+ healthcare, promoting inclusivity and equality, and fighting against discrimination and prejudice in all its forms. Now more than ever, Medical Students for Choice advocates for a world that honors the human right to bodily autonomy and where queer people can live their best glorious lives in communities free of violence and oppression.
By Felipe on April 03rd, 2023. Posted under: 2023, Blog Post, Featured Article
My name is Rachel Steffes, MS, OMS-II at Kansas City University (KCU) College of Osteopathic Medicine and President of our MSFC Chapter.
Research and Abstract
My research focuses on Medical Abortion Trends During COVID-19 at an Independent Clinic in Detroit, Michigan. I’ve worked on this project for the last few years with my co-author, Susanna Wang, MS, MS-2, at Michigan State University College of Human Medicine. We wanted to understand patient preferences towards medical or surgical abortion during the time in which Michigan was under a “Stay at Home” Executive Order. The results showed that medical abortions increased significantly compared to surgical abortion trends during this time. After the Executive Order was lifted, there was an eventual return-to-baseline. We feel like this data shows the importance of medical abortion and the potential for medical abortion’s expansion in rural or underserved communities. After the verdict in the Supreme Court’s Dobbs v. Jackson decision, we feel like our research has become even more relevant: as access to care decreases, there will be the potential for increased use of medical terminations. We will be presenting this research on a national scale at the American College of Osteopathic Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOOG) 90th Annual Conference in San Diego this spring.
Getting Started in Abortion Care
Prior to medical school, I worked at an abortion clinic in Detroit for several years as a medical assistant and counselor. I had a profound sense of impact on the community I was serving, and upon leaving my job, I wanted to feel still connected to the community. Abortion research makes the topic more mainstream, and I feel like this creates a space for open discussion. Because of this piece, I am now involved in two more research projects focusing on abortion.
Inspiration to Becoming a Doctor
I was very clumsy as a child, and repeated illnesses, lacerations, breaks, and bruises landed me in and out of the Emergency Department (ED); when my parents would be overwhelmed with emotion (rightfully so), I was met by a sense of reassurance and peace from the hospital staff. The people around me reflected my feelings of calmness and positivity, knowing what to do to make everything okay. I relished the sense of community, and the confidence and ease the doctors brought to their visitors. As an adult who learned not to be as klutzy, I shadowed over 100 hours in the same ED, learned to suture in a dermatology office, ultrasound at an abortion clinic, and volunteered at a community needle exchange to address addiction and decrease transmissible illnesses. My interest in Emergency Medicine in relation to abortion care would allow me to make an initial and immediate impact on women in crisis.
Kansas City University MSFC Chapter
Our chapter, with over 135 members, has had many amazing events this year so far, including multiple workshops (MVA on Papayas, No Scalpel Vasectomy, IUD insertion); several informative speakers; a movie night with pizza in collaboration with KCU’s Student National Medical Association (SNMA) Chapter to premiere “Aftershock,” a documentary on maternal health; and volunteering at local high schools to teach sexual health, education, and pregnancy prevention.
My favorite events have been our First Annual Sexual Health Bingo and our First Annual Reproductive Health Week. This past fall, our Sexual Health Bingo focused on raising money for Christine’s Place, a local women’s shelter. The KCU community raised $1,056, which purchased feminine and hygiene products and blankets for the shelter. Holding Bingo at a local brewery with over 80 participants, we called out terms associated with female health, STDs, abortion, and pregnancy, along with some “fun facts” to help normalize the discussion of potentially stigmatized topics.
This past February, we hosted Reproductive Health Week, a week-long event that consisted of a Pregnancy Simulation (60 participants), IUD Insertion Workshop (60 participants), C-Section Suture Clinic (70 participants), Valentine’s Day Table (with free condoms, lubricant, and candy, in addition to flowers and raffle tickets for $1), and Sexual Health Trivia. Our Valentine’s Day Table had over 200 students and staff entries into a Chocolate or a Love Box raffle. Our Trivia consisted of over 60 handwritten trivia questions; we held the event at a local restaurant/brewery and had over 70 participants in 13 teams. From the events during the week, we managed to raise $1,015 for No Shame KC, a nonprofit organization focused on ending period poverty by supplying period products to underserved communities.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the amazing women who helped make these events happen. Sexual Health Bingo was in collaboration with KCU’s ACOOG Chapter (with support from Natalie Sipes, OMS-II) and KCU’s Student Osteopathic Medical Association (SOMA) Chapter (with support from Elizabeth Keene, OMS-II). Reproductive Health Week was in collaboration with KCU’s Family Medicine Club (with support from Stephanie Cox, OMS-II, also a member of our MSFC Executive Board) and KCU’s ACOOG Chapter (with support from Brit Belme, OMS-II, and Priya Thakur, OMS-II). I feel honored to work alongside such supportive women when planning these events. I am thankful to be a student at KCU, and very proud to be in such a supportive and engaged medical community.
Top Row, from Left to Right: Brit Belme, Stephanie Cox, Priya Thakur; Bottom Row, from Left to Right: Elizabeth Keene, Rachel Steffes, Natalie Sipes
Starting an MSFC Chapter at Your Medical School
If you are passionate about something, go for it. Find people around you that support you, lift one another up, and have each other’s backs. Our MSFC Executive Board members had different interests within abortion care: Vice President Bina Ranjit, OMS-II, is highly passionate about advocacy, building partnerships with KCU’s Student Advocates For Equality Education (SAFEE) and SNMA Chapters, and provided weekly updates on national policies and abortion training information. Treasurer Stephanie Cox, OMS-II, intertwined abortion care in multiple medical fields, understanding the relevance of it not just in OB/GYN, but also in the Family Medicine community; she provided hands-on support in event planning and execution. Secretary Maheen Khan, OMS-II, found her passion for abortion within the importance of education, forging new connections with principals at local high schools to expand our sexual education volunteering. We would not have accomplished as much as we did without each of our unique interests and differences, and I believe that highlighting those unique perspectives within our events this past year made us successful as a team.
By Felipe on March 14th, 2023. Posted under: 2023, Featured Article
MSFC is just as excited for Match Day 2023 as you are, and we’re working hard to ensure medical students and residents are equipped to fight for access to safe and legal abortion and reproductive care.
If you don’t match on Match Day, remember that it’s not the end of the road. There are still options available to you. It’s natural to feel upset and frustrated, but it’s important to keep pushing forward and to not give up on your dream of becoming a doctor.
Many people have faced the same situation and went on to have successful careers. In fact, some have even suggested that not getting matched into residency can be a blessing in disguise, as it allows you to explore other areas of medicine that you may not have considered before.
If you’re feeling disappointed, you’re not alone. Visit this article from the American Medical Association (AMA) as a helpful guide to find advice and resources.
There are many paths to success and no matter what path you choose, it is important to keep working towards your goals. Remember that setbacks are a natural part of any journey, and it is how you respond to those setbacks that will define your success. Use this opportunity to reflect on your strengths and weaknesses, and work to improve them. Reach out to your mentors and colleagues for support, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
Ultimately, Match Day is just one step in a long and rewarding journey. It’s important to stay focused on your goals and to not let disappointments hold you back. Keep working hard, stay positive, and don’t give up on your dreams. You can achieve anything you set your mind to.
