Minister Leszczyna emphasized that, under the law, a single medical opinion, including from a psychiatrist or other specialist, should be sufficient for an abortion.
Any additional requirements, such as a second opinion or a panel review, will be considered as creating barriers to accessing a guaranteed medical service.
She also noted that the threat to a woman's health, including mental health, is sufficient for a legal abortion and that the law does not require the threat to be "immediate" or "exceptionally severe."
Prime Minister Tusk explained that these new health ministry guidelines complement previous justice ministry guidelines, aiming to change the abortion landscape in Poland.
He acknowledged that legal reform is not possible due to opposition from the Polish Peasant's Party (PSL), but assured that the government will work within existing laws to improve the situation and support women's rights.
Justice Minister Bodnar added that, according to the August guidelines, decisions about abortion based on mental health are entirely permissible and should not involve prosecutorial intervention.
The guidelines aim to increase sensitivity among prosecutors and improve the application of abortion laws to prevent further humiliation of women in difficult situations.
Additionally, Leszczyna announced that pregnant women in Poland will be able to receive free pertussis vaccinations.
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Source: IAR/PAP
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