Texas abortion ban's ripple effects
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Texas' abortion ban didn't just affect Texans — it has squeezed access to care in states that don't even border Texas.
Why it matters: While previous reporting has focused on Texans flooding clinics in other states, a new study reveals broader ripples in Colorado, a state where abortion remains legal.
- The Texas ban has led to procedure delays and a spike in second-trimester abortions in Colorado, a new JAMA Network Open study suggests.
The big picture: The study underscores how interconnected the health care system is beyond state borders.
By the numbers: The percentage of abortions in Colorado provided to out-of-staters jumped from 13% in 2020 to 30% by 2023, the study found.
- Amid the surge in demand, Colorado residents were 83% more likely to undergo second-trimester abortions after Texas' initial six-week ban took effect in September 2021.
- Peak strain on Colorado's health care system hit about six months after that ban kicked in. Six months after that, Texas enacted a near total abortion ban with few exceptions.
What they're saying: Colorado clinicians say the dramatic increase in patients from Texas created scheduling bottlenecks that delayed care for out-of-state and local patients.
- The initial spike has leveled off, but demand from out-of-state patients remains above pre-ban levels.
What they did: Researchers at Colorado State University analyzed Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment monthly abortion data from January 2018 to June 2024, including information on residency and gestational age.
Yes, but: The study noted limitations. It didn't account for individuals who couldn't afford to travel, meaning the true impact of Texas' ban may be even more severe.
What's next: Researchers suggest that expanded telehealth and self-managed abortion options may be starting to ease some strain on the system.
- But with abortion restrictions stacking up in multiple states, the long-term impact on access — even in states like Colorado — remains uncertain.