1. What are the requirements for abortion clinic licensure in West Virginia?

In West Virginia, abortion clinics are licensed and regulated by the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR). The requirements for licensure include submitting an application for licensure, obtaining a Certificate of Need from the DHHR, undergoing an inspection of the facility prior to licensure, and providing evidence of successful completion of an approved infection control program. In addition, clinics must meet certain physical plant requirements, have an established plan for responding to medical emergencies, and provide staff training in accordance with regulations.

2. Are there any restrictions on the number of abortion clinics in West Virginia?

Yes, there are restrictions on the number of abortion clinics in West Virginia. In 2021, there is only one abortion clinic left in the state. The clinic must also meet certain requirements in order to be able to offer abortions. The clinic must also comply with various restrictions on how it can operate and provide services, including restrictions on the types of abortions that can be performed and when they can be performed.

3. Are there parental notification laws for minors seeking abortions in West Virginia?

Yes. Under West Virginia law, minors must obtain written consent from a parent or guardian before they can get an abortion. The consent must be provided in person at least 48 hours before the abortion procedure is performed. Minors who are unable to obtain consent from a parent or guardian may seek judicial bypass which can be granted by a judge if the minor is deemed mature and/or that the abortion is in the best interest of the minor.

4. Are there any restrictions on insurance coverage for abortions in West Virginia?

Yes, there are restrictions on insurance coverage for abortions in West Virginia. West Virginia law prohibits the use of state funds to provide abortions, except in cases of rape, incest, or where the woman’s life is in danger. Insurance plans offered through the state’s health insurance exchange must also exclude abortion coverage, except in cases of rape, incest, or to save the life of the mother. Additionally, private insurance companies are not required to cover abortion services.

5. Are there any waiting periods for women seeking abortions in West Virginia?

Yes, in West Virginia there is a mandatory 24-hour waiting period for women seeking an abortion. Women must wait 24 hours after their initial appointment for the procedure to be performed.

6. Are there any ultrasound requirements for women seeking abortions in West Virginia?

West Virginia does not require ultrasounds for women seeking abortions. However, some doctors may choose to perform one to confirm the pregnancy and provide the patient with more information.

7. Are there any restrictions on Medicaid funding for abortions in West Virginia?

Yes. According to the West Virginia Department of Health & Human Resources, Medicaid funding for abortions is only available in the case of rape, incest, or if the life of the mother is in danger.

8. Is telemedicine abortion allowed in West Virginia?

Currently, telemedicine abortion is not allowed in West Virginia.

9. Are there any abortion-specific informed consent requirements in West Virginia?

Yes, there are abortion-specific informed consent requirements in West Virginia. Women seeking an abortion in West Virginia must receive the following information at least 24 hours before the procedure: (1) an explanation of the nature of the procedure, (2) the risks and alternatives to the procedure, (3) information on the probable gestational age of the unborn child, (4) possible medical risks associated with carrying the pregnancy to full term, and (5) a statement that medical assistance benefits may be available for prenatal care. Additionally, women must sign a statement acknowledging that they have received this information and have been informed of their right to view an ultrasound of the unborn child and hear its heartbeat if available.

10. Is medication abortion allowed to be done at home in West Virginia?

No, medication abortion is not allowed to be done at home in West Virginia. Medication abortion must be done in a clinic or doctor’s office.

11. Is informed consent required for all types of abortion in West Virginia?

Yes, informed consent is required for all types of abortion in West Virginia. A woman must receive information about the risks and benefits of the procedure at least 24 hours prior to the abortion and must sign a consent form.

12. Are there any gestational age limits on abortion in West Virginia?

Yes. West Virginia prohibits abortion after 20 weeks of gestation, except in cases where the pregnant woman’s life is at risk, or where the fetus has a lethal anomaly.

13. Are there any laws requiring abortion providers to have hospital admitting privileges in West Virginia?

No, there are no laws requiring abortion providers to have hospital admitting privileges in West Virginia.

14. Are there any laws requiring abortion clinics to meet ambulatory surgical center standards in West Virginia?

Yes, there are laws requiring abortion clinics to meet the standards of ambulatory surgical centers in West Virginia. The law, which was passed in 2016, requires all abortion clinics to meet the same standards as ambulatory surgical centers, which include larger operating rooms, wider hallways, and additional equipment. The law also requires that licensed physicians perform abortions, and that all patients receive counseling at least 24 hours before the procedure.

15. Are there any regulations on the use of fetal tissue obtained through abortion in West Virginia?

No, there are no regulations on the use of fetal tissue obtained through abortion in West Virginia.

16. Is there a ban on race- or sex-selective abortions in West Virginia?

There is no ban on race- or sex-selective abortions in West Virginia. However, the state does have laws that limit access to abortion services and require certain procedures to be followed before an abortion can be performed.

17. Is healthcare provider conscience exemption allowed for abortion providers in West Virginia?

No, West Virginia does not allow a conscience exemption for healthcare providers who do not wish to provide abortion services.

18. Are teens allowed to consent to their own abortions without parental approval in West Virginia?

No, teens in West Virginia are not allowed to consent to their own abortions without parental approval. Under West Virginia law, a minor under the age of 18 must obtain consent from a parent or guardian before they can receive an abortion.

19. Are there any restrictions on private insurance coverage of abortions in West Virginia?

Yes, private insurance coverage of abortions in West Virginia is restricted. Private insurance companies are not allowed to cover abortions except in cases of life endangerment, rape, or incest.

20. Are there any restrictions on the use of public funds for abortions in West Virginia?

Yes, public funds for abortions are restricted in West Virginia. Pursuant to state law, public funds may only be used to pay for abortions in cases of rape, incest, or danger to the life of the woman. In addition, non-profit organizations that receive state funding are prohibited from using any of those funds to provide abortion services.