Google Search Returned Fewer Results for Abortion Services in Rural Areas

Researchers conducted a comprehensive study examining Google Search results for abortion-related queries across 467 locations in the United States over 14 weeks. The study involved 10 different abortion-related search queries performed weekly from each location to analyze whether Google directed users to abortion clinics (ACs) or crisis pregnancy centers (CPCs). The results showed that among Google's location-based business results, 79.4% were abortion clinics and 6.9% were crisis pregnancy centers. When an abortion clinic appeared in results, it was the closest known clinic 86.9% of the time, but when a CPC appeared, it was the closest one 75.9% of the time. The study revealed significant disparities in search results quality, with fewer abortion clinic results returned for searches conducted from poorer and rural areas, as well as areas with TRAP laws governing abortion clinic facility and clinician requirements. The researchers noted that Google's performance on these queries improved following a major algorithm update during the study period. The study highlights concerns about equitable access to healthcare information and services through search engines, particularly affecting vulnerable populations in rural and economically disadvantaged areas.