Community Corner

Protest Over Hoag's Elective Abortion Ban Set for Thursday

Officials from Hoag Hospital say despite the upcoming protest over its ban on elective abortions, the board will not reverse its decision.

Several women's groups and supporters will gather outside of Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian this week to protest the hospital's ban on elective abortions.

According to the Orange County chapter of the National Organization for Women, the protest will be held on Thursday at 5 p.m. at Hoag Hospital in Newport Beach. NOW supporters are encouraged to wear purple to the rally, which according to organizers, is to "insist that the hospital reinstate comprehensive reproductive healthcare services at its hospitals."

Hoag announced its elective abortion ban in May, and hospital officials maintain the  decision was made independently by the hospital’s board, and was not religiously inspired by its affiliation with the St. Joseph Health System and its Catholic faith.

A hospital official said the protest will not change the course of Hoag's policy on elective abortions.

"Hoag's Board of Directors undertook a comprehensive, clinically-led evaluation of Women's health services, and the Board will not reverse this decision," Nina Robinson, hospital spokeswoman, said in a released statement. 

Robinson said hospital officials have reached out to protest organizers to  "ensure a smooth demonstration that does not interfere with access to Hoag or the privacy and safety of our patients, visitors, healthcare providers and first responders."

What do you think about Hoag Hospital's ban on elective abortions? Tell us in the comments.

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