Considerations Regarding Access to Covered Abortion Services for Minors
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Reproductive Health Q&A
Q1:
How does the DOD address access to covered abortion services for minors?
A:
In all cases involving minors, DOD personnel should immediately consult with the servicing legal counsel.
As with adults, for minors, all necessary medical and psychological services and supplies related to a covered abortion may be provided by the MTF or by a TRICARE authorized provider. This may include ultrasound performed prior to the abortion, pathology services, pregnancy tests, office visits, and any applicable requirements mandated by state and/or local laws.
When an MTF provider encounters a child the provider suspects has been sexually abused, the child will be given priority for care at an MTF.
MTF providers will refer DOD minor-dependents who are victims of sexual assault for follow-on care, which may include referral to a Domestic Abuse Victim Advocate (DAVA) or Family Advocacy Program. A DAVA coordinates and manages care for a victim of sexual assault that occurs within a family or between intimate partners. FAP/DAVA clinicians are covered professionals who are required to report suspected child abuse directly to local civilian child welfare services in accordance with law and DOD policy.
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Last Updated: August 16, 2022