Although state law requires all abortion providers to keep this now-dubious source of information on hand, along with its companion piece with the fetus photographs, the state doesn't send the required books, say providers, a responsibility clearly spelled out in statute. The publications' scarcity often means that staff members have to spend time on the phone, placing requests to the state health department or trying to scrounge copies from colleagues. It is mostly larger providers, including Magee Women's Hospital and Women's Health Services of Pittsburgh, Allentown Women's Center and the Elizabeth Blackwell Health Center for Women in Philadelphia, who have reported shortages. Smaller providers say they don't go through enough books for it to be an issue. Ironically, the state is providing too few books even for the very small minority of patients who actually want them.
Most women decline to take the materials, providers report.
The Department of Health is very uncooperative on these things. We're copying information to specific counties. We're spending time and materials. If they're going to put out these laws, they have to follow through with them. Health department spokesperson Richard McGarvey says the materials are in short supply because they're preparing to print the next edition.