California sues Catholic hospital for denying emergency abortion to women having a miscarriage
Summary
California has filed a lawsuit against Providence St. Joseph Hospital for denying an emergency abortion to Anna Nusslock, who was miscarrying and at risk for serious complications. Attorney General Rob Bonta stated that the hospital's refusal violated state laws mandating emergency abortion care. Nusslock, 15 weeks pregnant and facing imminent health risks after her water broke, was initially denied treatment due to hospital policy. She was sent to another hospital with only a bucket and towels provided for the journey, in case she began to hemorrhage en route. The state seeks an injunction to ensure the hospital complies with laws providing necessary emergency care.
Relevance
Case launched against a religious hospital, shows the challenges of retaining religious identity while prioritizing patient access. There is some debate emerging around whether this really was an 'emergency' abortion or not.