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Swedish is not a religious organization.
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Swedish patients can always discuss any procedure or need with their provider.
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Patients may be referred to other facilities for elective abortions based on clinical best practice.
Our services and care have not changed. Swedish remains committed to providing the care and services we’ve always provided. See more below.
This FAQ is slightly updated from our original post in 2014. Swedish often receives questions about its policies related to reproductive health. Please see below for a list of frequently asked questions. If you are a member of the media working on a story with additional questions, please contact Swedish’s media relations team at (206) 998-5028.
Is Swedish a Catholic hospital?
No. Swedish is a secular (non-faith-based) organization. Swedish affiliated with Providence Health & Services in 2012 to improve the health and well-being of our communities and increase access to care. On March 31, 2022, Providence and Swedish announced a unified brand called Providence Swedish for its family of organizations in Western Washington.
Is Swedish becoming a faith-based organization or is Providence becoming secular?
No. Swedish campuses and clinics remain secular, and Providence ministries remain Catholic. As we have for 10 years, we will continue working together on behalf of our communities while upholding our distinct identities.
Does Swedish follow the Ethical and Religious Directives (ERDs) for Catholic Health Care Services?
No. Swedish is a non-faith-based health care institution and is not required to follow the ERDs. Swedish will remain a secular organization, and Providence will remain a faith-based organization.
Will the scope of services available at Swedish change to align with the Ethical Religious Directives for Catholic Healthcare Services?
No. Swedish will continue to provide certain services that may not be available at Providence ministries in accordance with the Ethical Religious Directives (ERDs). Women’s services, urology and transgender care at Swedish will retain the Swedish name.
Does Swedish perform elective abortions?
No. Following clinical best practice, Swedish believes elective abortions are best performed in an outpatient setting. Swedish clinicians are able to refer to these providers/outpatient settings.
What happens to Swedish patients seeking an elective abortion?
Swedish physicians can refer patients seeking an elective abortion to an appropriate, outpatient provider. Our clinicians will always apply their best judgment to ensure patient safety.
Can Swedish physicians discuss abortion with their patients?
Yes. There are no limitations on what a clinician can discuss with a patient.
Will Swedish terminate a pregnancy if the health or life of the mother is at risk?
Yes. When medically necessary, on an emergency basis, termination of pregnancy procedures may be performed at Swedish facilities. Swedish clinicians exercise their own best medical judgment to ensure safe, quality care for each patient.
Does Swedish provide birth control services such as tubal ligations and vasectomies?
Yes. Swedish offers a full range of birth control services, including tubal ligations and vasectomies.
Where can I learn more about your reproductive care policies?
On our website at www.swedish.org/about/overview/policies.
Find a doctor
If you have questions about reproductive health, contact the gynecology OB/GYN department at Swedish. We can accommodate both in-person and virtual visits.
Whether you require an in-person visit or want to consult a doctor virtually, you have options. Swedish Virtual Care connects you face-to-face with a nurse practitioner who can review your symptoms, provide instruction and follow up as needed. If you need to find a doctor, you can use our provider directory.
Join our Patient and Family Advisory Council.
This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your health care professional's instructions.
