Pennsylvania's Abortion Control Act

In order to comply with the Abortion Control Act, each patient must receive state-mandated information from a physician at least 24 hours before the procedure starts. There are three ways to get this information: at a consultation visit in the office; speaking with one of out physicians by phone; or by asking your own doctor or clinic to give you the information.

Pennsylvania law also requires that a parent or guardian give consent for a patient under 18. If a patient is unable or unwilling to get a parent's consent, our staff can help her meet with a judge to determine that she is mature and able to give consent for herself. Our telephone counselors can give you more information about this option.

If you would like to talk with your own doctor or clinic, please click on the 24-Hour Consent Form link below and print out the consent form, complete it with your physician, and bring it with you to your appointment. This could save you a trip to our center. 24-Hour Consent Form

The Consultation Visit at AWC:

If you choose to get the 24-hour consent at AWC, there will be a group information session during which a physician explains the procedure, complications, and alternatives. A counselor discusses contraceptive options and reviews the surgical consent. You will complete a medical chart, blood work, urine sample, and an ultrasound. You will meet with a counselor privately to discuss options, risks, aftercare, and contraception. You will have an opportunity to ask questions and talk about your decision. After making an initial deposit, you will be given instructions and an appointment for surgery. This visit usually takes 1½ to 2 hours.