Overturning Roe v. Wade and pre-medical students’ views and medical school choices

The overturning of Roe v. Wade in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization (2022) has led to varying abortion laws across states in the U.S., potentially influencing medical education choices. While some research has examined abortion policy changes and medical residencies and fellowship decisions, none has investigated abortion policy and medical school decisions. This study aims to determine whether pre-medical students' personal views on abortion influence their willingness to attend medical schools in states where abortion is illegal at all stages EXCEPT to save the life of the mother. A cross-sectional survey was distributed to pre-medical organizations at the two largest four-year institutions in each U.S. state and the District of Columbia, except Wyoming, which has only one four-year institution. The survey collected demographic data, political affiliation, intended medical specialty, and personal stance on abortion. Participants indicated their willingness to attend medical school in states with different types of abortion policies. There were 182 completed surveys from participants in 20 different states. Analysis showed that students who believed abortion is acceptable and should be legal at all stages were significantly less willing to attend medical school in states where abortion is illegal EXCEPT to save the life of the mother. Abortion policy may influence medical school decisions among pre-medical students, which may have long-term implications for physician distribution, particularly in states with restrictive abortion laws. Future research should explore how these trends impact healthcare workforce shortages and access to reproductive care.