Planned Parenthood Keystone Launches Medication Abortion Via Telehealth in Central and Northeastern PA

Eligible Patients Can Now Access Safe, Legal Abortion From Home  

[Warminster, PA] — Planned Parenthood Keystone is proud to announce the launch of medication abortion via telehealth in Central and Northeastern Pennsylvania, which allows patients to access safe, legal abortion under the supervision of a health care provider from the comfort of their home. Medication abortion via telehealth is a safe and effective way to end an early pregnancy, and the process is almost exactly the same as when the provider is in-person at the health center with a patient. 

“Planned Parenthood Keystone is proud to begin offering medication abortion via telehealth to eligible patients. Abortion is essential and time-sensitive health care. By providing medication abortion via telehealth, we can make it easier for patients to access safe and legal care in a timely manner, no matter who they are or where they live,” said Melissa Reed, President and CEO.  

Through medication abortion via telehealth, eligible patients connect with a provider — through a private, secure videoconferencing platform — to conduct necessary pre-screening and follow-up care. Medication can then be mailed to the patient’s home. Providing medication abortion via telehealth reduces the number of required health center trips for patients, as well as on-site time, which is especially helpful for patients who need to secure transportation, child care, and time off work.

“During the COVID-19 pandemic, using telehealth to provide abortion helps to reduce the risk of COVID-19 exposure for both patients and health center staff, and decreases barriers to care for the communities harmed most by COVID-19,” said Reed.  

Medication abortion via telehealth offers patients the option of a more private method of ending a pregnancy — in a setting in which they feel most comfortable — while still providing them with the necessary support and information from a health care professional. Research has shown that providing medication abortion via telehealth is just as safe and effective as care delivered in person. Every patient is supported with 24-hour access to their health care provider for any questions or concerns they may have.

At Planned Parenthood Keystone, the safety and health of patients, staff, and broader communities remains our highest priority as our country faces an unprecedented public health crisis. Self-isolation and social distancing are ways we can care for ourselves and each other. Our health is connected, and we can all do our part and take care of ourselves, our health, and our community. 

Planned Parenthood Keystone’s nine health centers in central and northeastern PA offer a wide range of sexual and reproductive health care services, and more than 22,000 patients annually depend on Planned Parenthood Keystone for expert, affordable, compassionate health care.  

For more information on telehealth services or to make an appointment, visit www.ppkeystone.org.