What to Know About Your Legal Rights as a Patient - Pro-Choice Washington

Pro-Choice Washington

ResourcesAbortion Access Guide

What to Know About Your Legal Rights as a Patient

Abortion is legal and protected in Washington. Anyone, of any age, can access an abortion for any reason before viability of the fetus (when it can live outside your body). You don’t have to live in-state or be a US citizen, and you don’t need permission from anyone to access an abortion.

Out of State

You can come from anywhere outside of Washington to receive abortion services.

If you travel to Washington for abortion care and encounter law enforcement of any kind, you do not have to tell them about your abortion.

If you reside in a state where abortion is banned, Washington’s Shield Law prohibits state law enforcement and courts from helping other states prosecute patients who receive abortion care.

For more legal support, visit Repro Legal Hotline or call 844-868-2812.

Data Privacy

The My Health My Data Act prohibits the selling of personal health information without your consent on apps, websites, and the dark web.

Learn how to protect your digital privacy

Protestors

Washington law (RCW 9A.50.020) prevents anyone from stopping or blocking you from receiving medical care, including abortion. If protestors try to stop or threaten you, tell the clinic and document what happened.

Contact Legal Voice at info@legalvoice.org for help.

Patient Stories
Read our real-life inspired patient stories and get access to information and links that you can use to get help if you find yourself in a similar situation.