Tennessee Doctor Denies Prenatal Care to Unmarried Woman Due to “Values”
In Jonesborough, Tennessee, a 35-year-old woman was denied prenatal care by her physician due to her unmarried status, a decision made possible by Tennessee’s new Medical Ethics Defense Act. This act allows healthcare providers to refuse treatment based on moral beliefs without requiring patient referrals. Facing this denial, the woman is now seeking care in Virginia. This case highlights the implications of the law, especially in rural areas with limited options, amid concerns about the state’s high maternal mortality rates and the potential impact of Medicaid cuts.
John Q. Hosedrinker