US Abortion Rate Steady as Telehealth & Travel Rise Despite Bans

The shifting landscape of reproductive healthcare access in the United States is becoming increasingly complex, and the effects are rippling through communities nationwide. Although the national abortion rate has remained relatively stable – 1.126 million procedures in 2025, a slight increase from 1.124 million the previous year – this stability masks a significant geographic reshuffling. The ability to maintain this rate isn’t due to a lack of restrictions, but rather a growing reliance on interstate travel and, crucially, the expansion of telehealth services. Here in Chicago, a city already grappling with healthcare disparities and a diverse population, these trends present both opportunities and challenges.

The Rise of Telehealth and Shield Laws

The report highlights a particularly noteworthy development: the increasing use of telehealth, especially for medication abortion. Clinicians in states with robust protections for both patients and providers – like Modern York and Massachusetts – are now remotely prescribing medication to individuals residing in states with outright bans or severe restrictions, such as Texas and Alabama. This is largely due to “shield laws,” which are designed to protect healthcare professionals from legal repercussions in other states. Joanne Rosen, a professor at the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, emphasizes the importance of these laws, stating they “allow people to get around the effect of their own state’s abortion ban.”

This trend is particularly relevant for Chicago, a major transportation hub and a city with a strong network of healthcare providers. The city serves as a destination for individuals seeking care from surrounding states with more restrictive laws. The convenience and affordability of telehealth, coupled with the legal protections afforded by Illinois’s own reproductive rights laws, are likely driving increased demand for these services within the city and its surrounding suburbs.

The Changing Geography of Abortion Access

While the number of abortions performed nationally has remained relatively consistent, the report reveals a decline in cross-state travel overall – from 170,000 in 2023 to 154,000 in 2024, and further to 142,000 in 2025. But, this decrease is primarily among residents of states with total bans. Even with the decline, 62,000 people still traveled from states with total bans last year, more than double the number before the 2022 Dobbs decision. Another 47,000 traveled from states with six- or 12-week bans.

This data suggests that while telehealth is filling some of the gap, the need for in-person care remains significant, particularly for those later in pregnancy or requiring procedural abortions. Chicago, with its numerous hospitals and specialized clinics, is positioned to absorb some of this increased demand. However, the logistical and financial burdens of travel – including transportation, accommodation, and childcare – continue to pose significant barriers for many individuals.

Navigating a Complex Legal Landscape

The legal battles surrounding abortion access are far from over. Texas, for example, has initiated civil actions against doctors in states like New York and California, challenging the legality of providing telehealth services to residents of restrictive states. The future of these legal challenges remains uncertain, and the outcome could have significant implications for the availability of telehealth services nationwide.

the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is considering restrictions on telehealth prescriptions of mifepristone, despite its proven safety and effectiveness. Several states have already filed lawsuits challenging these potential rules. This ongoing legal uncertainty adds another layer of complexity to an already fraught situation. The Guttmacher Institute, a research organization that supports abortion rights, continues to track these developments closely, providing crucial data and analysis to policymakers and advocates.

The Impact on Illinois and the Chicago Area

Illinois has taken proactive steps to protect abortion access, enacting laws that safeguard both patients and providers. However, the influx of patients from other states is straining the capacity of Illinois’s healthcare system. Organizations like Planned Parenthood Illinois are working to expand access to care, but they face ongoing challenges in meeting the growing demand. The need for increased funding and resources is critical to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their state of residence, can access the reproductive healthcare they need.

The situation is further complicated by the fact that many people are unaware of their state’s abortion laws until they find themselves in need of care. This lack of awareness underscores the importance of providing clear and accurate information about reproductive healthcare options, particularly in a rapidly changing legal landscape.

Local Resources and Support in Chicago

Given my background in public health and healthcare access advocacy, if these trends are impacting you or someone you know in the Chicago area, here are three types of local professionals Make sure to consider connecting with:

Reproductive Rights Attorneys

Glance for attorneys specializing in healthcare law and reproductive rights. They can provide legal guidance on navigating the complex legal landscape, understanding your rights, and addressing any legal challenges you may face. Prioritize attorneys with a demonstrated commitment to protecting reproductive freedom and a strong understanding of Illinois law.

Financial Assistance Navigators

The cost of travel, accommodation, and the procedure itself can be significant barriers to access. Seek out organizations or professionals who can help you navigate financial assistance programs, identify funding sources, and create a budget to cover your expenses. Look for navigators with experience assisting out-of-state patients.

Telehealth Specialists/Care Coordinators

With the rise of telehealth, it’s important to have someone who can help you navigate the technology, understand the process, and connect you with qualified providers. Look for specialists who are familiar with the specific telehealth platforms used for medication abortion and who can provide support throughout the entire process. They should likewise be knowledgeable about shield laws and patient privacy.

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