SMFM Statement on Supreme Court Ruling on Emergency Abortion Care

Today, the U.S. Supreme Court issued its ruling in an Idaho case concerning the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) — a federal law that requires hospitals to treat and stabilize anyone who presents with an emergency medical condition. 

While the Court did not rule on the merits of the case, this order ensures that — for now — clinicians in Idaho will continue to receive federal protections guaranteeing access to necessary and life-saving care for pregnant people experiencing medical emergencies, regardless of the state’s restrictive abortion ban. 

“Today we breathe a collective sigh of relief, as the Supreme Court’s actions will allow patients to continue to receive the emergency care they need,” said Dr. Cynthia Gyamfi-Bannerman, President of the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM). “This order enables Idaho physicians to continue to administer lifesaving care using the highest standards of medical practice, regardless of individual state laws. No physician should ever be forced to choose between treating a patient and committing a crime.” 

Every person deserves access to the full spectrum of reproductive health care, including abortion care. SMFM is dedicated to ensuring every person gets the care they need and the outcome that is best for them and their pregnancy.  

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About SMFM
SMFM The Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM), founded in 1977, is the medical professional society for obstetricians who have additional training in high-risk, complicated pregnancies. SMFM represents more than 7,000 members who care for high-risk pregnant people and provides education, promotes research, and engages in advocacy to reduce disparities and optimize the health of high-risk pregnant people and their families. SMFM and its members are dedicated to optimizing maternal and fetal outcomes and assuring medically appropriate treatment options are available to all patients.

For media interviews, contact: smfm@smfm.org