Refusal to Provide Medical Services

ABORTION REFUSAL CLAUSE

Ohio allows certain individuals or entities to refuse to provide abortion services.

To whom does the refusal clause apply? Individuals and hospitals.

What does the refusal clause allow? No person may be required to participate in medical procedures that result in an abortion. No hospital may be required to permit abortion. The refusal to participate or permit may not be a basis for civil liability, disciplinary action, or other recriminatory action. A claim for civil damages may be brought for violation of the provision protecting individuals.

Does the law require the refusing entity to notify the persons affected? No.

Are there circumstances under which a refusal clause may not be exercised? No.

Does the law require the refusing individual or entity to provide medically and factually accurate information or provide a referral for abortion services? No.

Does the law provide a mechanism for women to otherwise obtain specific reproductive health services, information, or referrals if an individual and/or entity exercises a refusal clause? No.

Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 4731.91 (Enacted 1974).