Puerto Rico's Department of Health is currently investigating three abortion centers amid concerns about compliance with regulations, particularly regarding the consent of minors. During a recent press conference, officials highlighted that the majority of abortions for minors are performed at the University Hospital due to the high-risk nature of these procedures. The law mandates parental consent for minors seeking abortions, similar to requirements for other medical procedures.

The investigation follows reports that two of the three centers have not activated the SafeKit, a resource designed to assist victims of sexual assault, which raises significant concerns given the sensitive nature of cases involving minors. Officials reiterated that any non-consensual sexual activity is classified as a violation under the law, emphasizing the importance of adhering to established protocols.

In addition to the abortion center investigations, the Department of Health addressed the recent closures of maternity wards across the island. Over the past two years, four maternity centers have shut down, raising alarms about the availability of birthing services. While specific numbers on current maternity wards were not disclosed, officials acknowledged a decline in births, with a notable drop of over 500 births from 2023 to 2024.

The Department is actively working to ensure that access to healthcare services remains transparent and available, despite the challenges posed by the private nature of many healthcare facilities. As the investigation continues, the Department aims to uphold regulatory standards while addressing the pressing needs of the community.