House Committee on Oversight and Reform to Hold Hearing on Post-Roe Abortion Access Crisis
For Immediate Release: Sept. 29, 2022
Testimony anticipated from Planned Parenthood provider and patient advocate, among other experts
WASHINGTON — Today, the House Committee Oversight and Reform will convene a hearing in response to the abortion access crisis caused by the Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade.
Witnesses, including Planned Parenthood Gulf Coast Medical Director for Primary and Trans Care Dr. Bhavik Kumar and Kelsey Leigh, a patient storyteller, are set to testify on Thursday, September 29, 2022 at 10:00 am ET in a hearing entitled “Examining the Harm to Patients from Abortion Restrictions and the Threat of a National Abortion Ban.” Other witnesses include Dr. Nisha Verma, MD, MPH, FACOG, Fellow, Physicians for Reproductive Health; and Jocelyn Frye, President, National Partnership for Women & Families.
Statement from Planned Parenthood Gulf Coast Medical Director for Primary and Trans Care Dr. Bhavik Kumar:
“I’ve met, sat with, and cared for thousands of people who know it’s not the right time for them to be pregnant. Unlike the people who pass abortion bans, I actually have to face those who are harmed. I have to look my patients in the eye, listen to them beg for help, and tell them I’m not legally allowed to take care of them.”
Statement from Kelsey Leigh, a Planned Parenthood patient advocate:
“The people you each represent do not want abortion to be illegal. Your constituents are mothers like me, young people with dreams and plans, and citizens who should be allowed to make their own decisions about their health, their bodies, and their futures.”
###
Planned Parenthood is the nation’s leading provider and advocate of high-quality, affordable sexual and reproductive health care, as well as the nation’s largest provider of sex education. With more than 600 health centers across the country, Planned Parenthood organizations serve all patients with care and compassion, with respect and without judgment. Through health centers, programs in schools and communities, and online resources, Planned Parenthood is a trusted source of reliable health information that allows people to make informed health decisions. We do all this because we care passionately about helping people lead healthier lives.