The Obama administration just announced it will exclude abortion coverage in the temporary health-insurance pools that will transition us into the new health-care system.

 

This policy means that women who are part of these pools because they have significant health problems, such as diabetes or cancer, will not be able to access abortion care, even if their health is at further risk.

 

The administration’s policy is similar to the ban proposed by anti-choice Rep. Bart Stupak (D-Mich.). That’s unacceptable – even if it applies to a program that will last only about three years.

 

Abortion is the most common surgical procedure women receive. At a time when the country is on the cusp of implementing nationwide health-insurance coverage, we should not treat abortion care differently in the new high-risk pools.