Hunter
07/14/23
The heavily-restrictive abortion bill that was passed by the Iowa Legislature may cause nursing students to leave the state if medical schools like that at the University of Iowa lose their OB-GYN accreditation.
Iowa Capitol Dispatch quotes a nursing student who said she chose the University of Iowa to do her training because of the ability to have a full scope of family practice, including procedures and terminations. Grace Chabal said the legislation will affect where she ends up practicing in the future.
The University of Iowa houses the only obstetrics and gynecology residency program in the state. The Accreditation Council on Graduate Medical Education, who sets the standards, requires OB-GYN programs to include training or access to training for providing pregnancy termination. Once the new Iowa law goes into effect, residents must have access to clinic experiences where the restrictions don’t exist, or provide a simulated experience.
Board of Regents spokesman Josh Lehman told Iowa Capital Dispatch the University of Iowa will work with accreditors to provide the education needed for its students and trainees, adding that it’s critical to meeting the need for doctors and health care professionals in the state.
