Turkish Medical Association protests inspections of doctors performing abortions

The Turkish Medical Association (TTB) has issued a statement protesting inspections conducted by the Istanbul Provincial Health Directorate targeting approximately 20 obstetrics and gynecology specialists. According to the TTB, health officials issued reports against these doctors on the grounds that performing abortions in private practices is prohibited.

The Istanbul Provincial Health Directorate reportedly based its decision on a specific article in the Regulation on Private Health Institutions Providing Outpatient Diagnosis and Treatment, published in the Official Gazette on April 19, 2025. However, the TTB argues that this regulation ignores superior legal frameworks, including the Constitution, laws, and statutes.

The TTB emphasized that abortion is a legal medical procedure in Turkey and stated, “We will not allow doctors performing abortions to be investigated or punished based on these and similar grounds that lack legal basis.” The association also noted a previous legal victory where a court overturned a closure penalty against a physician for similar reasons, asserting that health directorates must respect the professional rights granted by medical diplomas and specialization certificates.