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AMA Victoria welcomes parliamentary review of abortion laws
The Australian Medical Association Victoria would welcome legal certainty on abortion.AMA Victoria President Dr Doug Travis said that termination of pregnancy was a health issue and should not form part of the criminal law.
“The AMA supports the right of every woman to make their own decisions about their reproductive health but at the same time it is important to respect the right of a doctor to determine the services they provide,” he said.
“Doctors’ views regarding abortion are as diverse as the rest of the community.
“What is important to every doctor and their ability to provide quality care to their patients is the independence of the doctor patient relationship,” Dr Travis said.
“Any legislative change must ensure doctors have the independence that is crucial to be able to provide the best possible care for their patients without fear of criminal proceedings.
“AMA Victoria would welcome legislation which provides that legal certainty for doctors rather than relying on a 38 year old common law ruling.”