The ACR Council has passed a resolution advocating for the protection of radiologists who provide reproductive-related services in states that ban abortion.

Members of the specialty first discussed the proposal in an April 27 editorial, published in the Journal of the American College of Radiology. They highlighted radiologists’ important role in diagnosing and treating pregnant patients, alongside concerns they could face prosecution in certain states that have adopted restrictions.

Following some minor amendments, there was no voiced opposition to the proposal, which was presented as part of the consent calendar during the ACR Annual Meeting that concluded on May 10.

“The resolution—passed with overwhelming support by the ACR Council comprising delegates from state chapters across the country—requires the ACR to oppose any government regulation or legislative action that would criminalize physicians and other medical imaging professionals for providing evidence-based medical care within the scope of their training, professional judgment, and nationally recognized professional practice guidelines,” Geraldine McGinty, MD, MBA, one of the proposal’s supporters and senior associate dean for clinical affairs at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York, told Radiology Business by email May 9. “Testimony from radiology leaders highlighted the difficult decisions for which patients need the support and care of imaging experts from cancer to twin-twin transfusion. Members shared powerful personal stories as well as their experience in the rapidly evolving landscape of state abortion laws since the Dobbs decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. The potential to be accused of a felony was described as having a chilling effect on the ability to provide the best care to patients.”

Its passage follows a grassroots effort among diagnostic and interventional radiologists, nuclear medicine professionals, radiation oncologists and medical physicists. Katherine Frederick-Dyer, MD, with Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, served as lead author of the previously mentioned editorial. She praised the leadership of Dr. McGinty, and contributions from Peter Eby, MD, and Elizabeth Dibble, MD, in helping the resolution reach the finish line.

“I am delighted by the overwhelming support Resolution #11 received at the ACR meeting and so proud of our team's successful grassroot efforts to support and advocate for our patients,” Frederick-Dyer told Radiology Business.