1. What is the definition of a late-term abortion in Washington D.C.?

In Washington D.C., a late-term abortion is defined as an abortion procedure performed after the fetus has reached viability, which is typically around 24 weeks of gestation.

2. What are the time limits for late-term abortions in Washington D.C.?

In Washington D.C., late-term abortions are legally available up to the point of fetal viability. Fetal viability is typically considered to be around 24 weeks of gestation, though individual cases may be different.

3. Does Washington D.C. allow for late-term abortions due to fetal anomalies?

Yes, Washington D.C. allows for late-term abortions due to fetal anomalies. D.C. law permits abortions up until the point of viability, and late-term abortions can be performed in the case of serious risk to the health of the pregnant woman or fetal anomaly.

4. Does Washington D.C. permit Medicaid funding for late-term abortions?

Yes, Washington D.C. permits Medicaid funding for late-term abortions. The District of Columbia Women’s Health and Wellness Act of 2010 (Act 18-466) states that the District of Columbia shall provide Medicaid coverage for medically necessary abortions, which includes late-term abortions.

5. Does Washington D.C. require parental consent or notification for minors seeking a late-term abortion?

Yes, Washington D.C. requires parental notification or consent for minors seeking a late-term abortion. According to the Guttmacher Institute, minors who are seeking an abortion must notify one of their parents, legal guardian, or other adult family member at least 48 hours before receiving the procedure.

6. Does Washington D.C. provide exceptions to the time limits for late-term abortions in cases of rape or incest?

Washington, D.C. does provide exceptions to the time limits for late-term abortions in cases of rape or incest, as specified in the city’s abortion laws. A physician is only authorized to perform a late-term abortion if they believe that it is necessary to preserve the life or health of the woman, or if the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest.

7. Does Washington D.C. require doctors to perform a medical test to determine gestational age before a late-term abortion?

No, Washington D.C. does not require doctors to perform a medical test to determine gestational age before a late-term abortion. However, the law does require that a physician determine that the abortion is medically necessary and that the fetus is not viable. Additionally, the doctor must provide an ultrasound or other appropriate testing to confirm the gestational age of the fetus.

8. Does Washington D.C. require written informed consent from the patient prior to a late-term abortion?

No, Washington D.C. does not require written informed consent from the patient prior to a late-term abortion. However, the physician must obtain informed consent from the patient before any medical or surgical procedure, including a late-term abortion. The physician must also provide information on the risks and benefits of the procedure and an opportunity for discussion with the patient.

9. Does Washington D.C. restrict the use of certain methods for performing late-term abortions?

Yes, Washington D.C. does restrict the use of certain methods for performing late-term abortions. The Reproductive Health Non-Discrimination Amendment Act of 2014 prohibits public and private employers in Washington D.C. from discriminating against employees or applicants based on their reproductive health decisions, including the decision to terminate a pregnancy by a method allowed by law. Specifically, the Act requires employers to allow and accommodate medical procedures that are necessary for an employee or applicant to terminate a pregnancy in accordance with the laws of the District of Columbia, including abortions performed after 24 weeks’ gestation that are necessary to preserve the life or health of the mother.

10. Are there any restrictions on public funding for late-term abortions in Washington D.C.?

Yes. Public funding for abortions in Washington D.C. is limited to abortions performed in the first trimester of pregnancy, except in cases of medical emergency or where the life of the woman is at risk. Late-term abortions are not eligible for public funding.

11. How much do late-term abortions typically cost in Washington D.C.?

The cost of a late-term abortion in Washington D.C. varies depending on the clinic or provider. Generally, late-term abortions can range anywhere from $900 to $4,500 depending on the gestation of the pregnancy. Cost is typically broken down into the actual procedure and any associated expenses such as an ultrasound, lab work, and doctor’s fees. Most providers will accept insurance, though some may require payment upfront.

12. Are there any special requirements for facilities that perform late-term abortions in Washington D.C.?

Yes. All facilities that perform abortions in Washington D.C. must follow the requirements set forth in Title 24 of the D.C. Code Regulations. These requirements include, but are not limited to the following:

• All abortion facilities must be licensed by the Department of Health and be regularly inspected at least twice a year by the Medical Director or the Department of Health.

• All abortion facilities must provide information regarding abortion and its risks to all potential patients prior to providing any services.

• All abortion facilities must provide counseling services to all patients considering an abortion, including late-term abortions.

• All abortion facilities must adhere to specific requirements related to the safety of late-term abortions, such as providing anesthesia, monitoring vital signs, and adhering to certain sanitation standards.

13. Are there any insurance plans available in Washington D.C. that cover the cost of a late-term abortion?

Yes, some insurance plans in Washington D.C. cover the cost of late-term abortions, depending on the individual policy. There are also several local organizations that offer assistance with abortion-related expenses and can help individuals access funds to cover the cost of a late-term abortion.

14. Does Washington D.C. allow for pre-abortion counseling regarding the risks associated with a late-term abortion procedure?

Washington D.C. does not have any specific laws regulating pre-abortion counseling for late-term abortions. However, the District’s Department of Health recommends that all patients receive comprehensive counseling prior to an abortion, including information about the procedure, the patient’s rights, and the potential risks associated with the procedure.

15. What are the criminal penalties for performing a late-term abortion in Washington D.C. without meeting legal requirements?

In Washington D.C., a late-term abortion is defined as any procedure performed after 24 weeks of pregnancy. In order for a late-term abortion to be legally performed in Washington D.C., certain requirements must be met, including the presence of two separate physicians who determine that the life or health of the woman is endangered by continuing the pregnancy.

Violating the legal requirements for performing a late-term abortion in Washington D.C. is a crime and is punishable by fines of up to $10,000 and/or up to one year in prison.

16. Are there any laws regarding the disposal of fetal remains after a late-term abortion in Washington D.C.?

Yes. In Washington D.C., fetal remains must be disposed of through a licensed funeral director or crematorium, or through a hospital, medical facility, or clinic. They must also be disposed of in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations.

17. Does Washington D.C. prohibit health care providers from refusing to perform or refer for a late-term abortion due to moral or religious beliefs?

No, Washington D.C. does not prohibit health care providers from refusing to perform or refer for a late-term abortion due to moral or religious beliefs. However, the D.C. Human Rights Act does prohibit discrimination based on religion in the provision of health care services.

18. Are there any restrictions on who can provide information about obtaining a late-term abortion in Washington D.C.?

Yes, providers of late-term abortions in Washington D.C. must be licensed physicians with Board certification in Obstetrics & Gynecology. They must be affiliated with a hospital that is located within the District of Columbia. Providers must have admitting privileges with the hospital and must have a current contract with the hospital to provide care to patients in need of late-term abortions.

19. Does Washington D.C. place any restrictions on advertising regarding late-term abortion services?

Yes, Washington D.C. does place restrictions on advertising regarding late-term abortion services. Under the District’s regulations, advertising for services related to late-term abortions must clearly state that such services are only available in certain circumstances, such as when a patient’s life or health is in danger. Ads also must state that the services are only available through specialized clinics and must not be presented in a manner that implies that the services are available on demand or without restrictions.

20. Is there any legal recourse available for women who experience complications after undergoing a late-term abortion in Washington D.C.?

Yes, there is legal recourse available for women who experience complications after undergoing a late-term abortion in Washington D.C. Women who experience any type of medical negligence or malpractice related to a late-term abortion in Washington D.C. can file a medical malpractice claim in the District of Columbia’s court system. Additionally, there are a number of organizations and legal resources available to provide support and assistance to women who have experienced complications after a late-term abortion in Washington D.C. These organizations include the D.C. Women’s Law Center, National Advocates for Pregnant Women (NAPW), and the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health (NLIRH). Moreover, the District of Columbia has laws that protect individuals from discrimination based on their reproductive health decisions, including those related to abortion.