Opening Of Abortion Access Hub: Mayor Adams And Health Commissioner Vasan Announced

A first-of-its-kind abortion access hub has been launched, according to New York City Mayor Eric Adams and Commissioner of the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) Dr. Ashwin Vasan. it was launched as an abortion access phone line that will discreetly direct callers to abortion clinics according to Mayor Eric Adams.

The New York City Abortion Access Hub, which received a $1 million investment, will be manned by navigators and managers from Monday through Saturday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Ensure NYC Remains Safe Haven For Abortion Care

The hub will ensure that New York City remains a safe haven for people seeking abortion care by connecting callers in confidence to licensed abortion care providers operating in the city’s five boroughs.

When human rights are at risk, New York City won’t remain silent, according to DOHMH Commissioner Dr. Vasan. The city of New York will always stand up for health, human rights, justice, and assistance for those in need when people’s liberties are in danger.

Navigators will link patients seeking care to clinical partners to enable resources, including financial support for the procedure, transportation, and/or housing if it is required in order to have an abortion. As a follow-up to the Dobbs Supreme Court ruling from June, Mayor Adams has also signed a number of bills that strengthen abortion protections, make medication abortions free at all DOHMH clinics, and improve public health education to ensure that everyone living in New York City and anybody visiting the city for reproductive health care is informed of their rights and can get treatment. Callers who qualify for Medicaid enrollment will be sent through to service providers who can enroll clients in the program.

After the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court, which effectively overruled Roe v. Wade this past June, Mayor Adams announced the hub. Nearly five months had passed since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, removing the right to an abortion when Adams and Vasan made their statement.

Even if the Dobbs decision was the Supreme Court’s most recent assault on health care and human rights, New York City will still remain a shelter for anyone looking to get a safe, legal abortion. The City of New York is dedicated to upholding the rights of all people seeking reproductive health care, including women.

In a statement, Adams said that the fundamental principles of our freedom to choose will continue to be upheld by New York City, and the city will strive to make sure that everyone who wants an abortion has access to high-quality, reasonably priced healthcare. According to the press release, bilingual staff members who speak both English and Spanish will work at the hub, and callers will be able to communicate with them in the nine most common languages as well as American Sign Language. According to the press release, staff members received training on gender-inclusive services, sexual and reproductive justice, and confidentiality.

Callers will be questioned about their requirements and preferences, including their chosen day of the week, where they live, and whether they are interested in medication abortions. They will also be asked whether they need help with the cost or their insurance. Every call is private and anonymous. No personal data will be gathered or kept on file. Callers’ needs and preferences will be solicited. Respondent needs for connecting to resources provided by referral partners will be determined through responses, which will aid navigators

Thus, New York City serves as a shelter for many, and we take pride in being the first in the country to provide this kind of service to individuals merely practicing their fundamental human rights regarding their bodies and their health.