The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), representing over 60,000 members across the nation, has announced that it will cease to accept federal funding for all programs and contracts. This decision comes in reaction to the Trump administration’s policies focusing on reducing federal initiatives centered around diversity, equity, and inclusion, as reported by Axios.
ACOG appears to be the first major physician organization to take such a step since the Trump administration began its campaign against these federal initiatives. The organization emphasizes that diversity, equity, and inclusion are fundamental to its mission and critical in combating racism and oppression within medical care.
In a statement, ACOG indicated that it would not elaborate on the specific implications of this funding cut on its services but reaffirmed its commitment to providing high-quality patient care and improving health outcomes. “After careful deliberation, ACOG has made an organization-wide decision to stop accepting federal funding for all ACOG programs and activities for current contracts,” the statement emphasized. The organization pointed out that recent changes in federal funding laws and regulations adversely affect their program objectives and policy positions.
Despite this funding withdrawal, ACOG plans to continue engaging with the Trump administration on policymaking matters and advocating for the interests of OB-GYNs. According to ACOG, they will assess future opportunities to collaborate with the government where their goals coincide.
In response, White House spokesperson Harrison Fields highlighted that the Trump administration prioritizes civil rights and expanding opportunities for Americans, explaining that the actions taken were to eliminate unlawful diversity, equity, and inclusion preferences within federal operations. The Department of Health and Human Services did not respond to requests for comments on this development.
ACOG has faced friction with the Trump administration, particularly following the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, which resulted in numerous state-level abortion bans. This shift has raised concerns about the safety and rights of pregnant individuals and the implications for reproductive health providers nationwide.
This significant announcement reflects ongoing tensions between healthcare organizations and federal policies, particularly concerning subjects like reproductive health, showcasing the continual need for advocacy and alignment in the evolving landscape of health care regulations.