Colorado Remains an "Abortion Destination" with Alarming Increase in Out-of-State Patients
In a recent report released by the Guttmacher Institute, a growing number of women are crossing state lines to access abortion care in Colorado.
This trend comes as no surprise, considering the permissive pro-abortion laws that exist in the state. While many states have taken steps to protect the lives of the unborn, Colorado has become a safe haven for those seeking abortion-on-demand.
With several states enacting bans on abortion in the past year and a half, Colorado has seen a tremendous surge in demand for its abortion services.
In 2021, when Roe v. Wade was still in place, Cobalt, a prominent abortion fund, provided a staggering $206,511 in support. $6,054, was allocated towards practical support such as travel and transportation costs.
In 2023, Cobalt has already reported providing a staggering $874,433 in support, with over $333,000 dedicated to covering travel and transportation expenses.
Adding to the growing demand, Denver Health, Colorado's oldest hospital and largest safety net provider, has recently started offering abortion care for the first time in its 163-year history., according to the reporting of Axios.
This move comes as Colorado clinicians are struggling to handle the influx of out-of-state patients following the reversal of Roe v. Wade. Wait times for abortion appointments have skyrocketed, leaving women in desperate need of services.
Since the launch of Denver Health's Reproductive Choice Clinic, appointment slots have been filling up rapidly. Clinic medical director and hospital physician, Dr. Spencer McClelland, revealed that appointments have been fully booked on every day they have been offered.
The clinic, currently operating one day a week, provides abortion procedures up to the 11th week of pregnancy. It charges $500 for both medication and procedural abortions, a fee deemed "comparable to other service providers in the area" by Denver Health, as told by Axios.
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The Cobalt Abortion Fund, which relies on donor funding, is projected to spend over $1 million this year, with approximately $600,000 allocated for procedures at Denver Health. This funding is expected to cater to an estimated 2,000-plus clients.
Colorado's Legislature and governor have taken steps to solidify the state's position as an abortion destination for women from all across America, regardless of age. During the last legislative session, they enacted additional laws to ensure that Colorado remains a place with minimal legal restrictions on abortions.