I look forward to an enlightened, revised and amended 5-412 such that science based best practices will be consistent with any and all in-office provision of out-patient care not just abortioncare.

Thank you Board of Health members: when we can correct an injustice, it demonstrates the dedicated folks who serve us can work for good and appropriate policies.

Thank you because of the extensive periodic review conducted of 5-412 these regulations have been amended. VDH, OLC, the Attorney General, the Governor and the public determined this as necessary, now we can get back to the public health traditions that have served and continue to serve the Commonwealth so well. Science based best practices that respect the doctor and patient relationship are the benchmark for appropriate healthcare regulations.

Can anyone explain, as a wise person once asked,  " we trust women to have jobs, to vote, to serve in the military, to raise children, but when it comes to abortion, somehow women lose their brains and their moral agency?"  

"Once we can recognize that abortion and pregnancy loss is part of the natural circle of life as it always has been for 2000 years, we will speak from a place that naturally holds no judgment or battle lines... the goodness is inherent there... acknowledging that this experience may hold both joy and sorrow, relief and regret, love and loss, strength and vulnerability... to bring that reality forward, rather than have it twisted and turned to stigma, is speaking in a language for women and their families that frankly... is unassailable."

Am pleased to support the amendments though there is more needed, this is a good start.

Policy Director, Falls Church Healthcare Center