Living in a beautiful but remote place like Bishop comes with its own set of challenges—including when it comes to accessing reproductive health care. If you're looking for abortion care or just trying to understand your options in the Eastern Sierra, you're not alone. Eastern Sierra Choice exists to help you understand your abortion options and to expand reproductive healthcare across the Owens Valley.

The Good News: Telehealth Is Making Abortion More Accessible Than Ever

One of the biggest shifts in the past few years is the rise of telehealth abortion—and it’s made a big difference for people in rural areas like Bishop.

• You can now consult with a provider online, have a prescription approved, and get abortion pills delivered by mail, all from the privacy of your home. (If you don't feel safe having medication delivered to your home, reach out to us! We may be able to help.)
• Medication abortion is safe, effective, and legal, and allows for abortion to be managed at home. Find out what to expect.
• If you're under 10 weeks pregnant and meet eligibility guidelines, this is often the most accessible option for people in rural areas like ours.

What about local hospitals and family health clinics?

Northern Inyo Hospital and the Rural Women's Health Clinic don't advertise offering abortions for non-emergency reasons. They do offer abortions for non-viable pregnancies. We are actively working on encouraging local providers to offer elective abortion services, as it is a vital and regular part of health care.

What If You Need In-Clinic Care?

There aren’t any surgical abortion clinics directly in Bishop, which means some folks may still need to travel out of town for in-clinic procedures. But you have options:

• Clinics in places like Bakersfield, Fresno, or Reno may be able to help.
• Many providers offer travel support, appointment coordination, and patient navigators—so you don’t have to figure it out on your own.
• California abortion funds exist to help cover the costs not only of the procedure, but often of travel, childcare, and other related expenses.

Tip: If you're considering in-clinic care, it's a good idea to reach out early to check wait times and get help planning your trip.

What abortion rights are protected in Bishop, CA?

California law ensures the right to access abortion care, including medication and in-clinic services. Here’s what that means for you:

• You can legally access abortion at any stage that’s medically appropriate.
• Telehealth care is protected—providers can mail abortion pills within California.
• Undocumented folks also have specific legal protections in California.

Resources for People in the Eastern Sierra

We know navigating this can be overwhelming. That’s why we’re building a hub of local and statewide resources, including:

• How to find a telehealth provider
• What to expect with medication abortion
• Information about follow-up care and support hotlines

You're Not Alone

Eastern Sierra Choice exists to make sure you have the information, clarity, and support you need—no matter where you live or what you're going through. Whether you’re just looking for answers or actively making a decision, we’ve got your back.

If you have questions, want to suggest resources, or need help finding care, reach out to us here. We’re your neighbors—and we’re in this together.