Op/Ed: Abortion provider stood her ground and won, but it's not over. Here's what we can do.

In the pursuit of a world where every person is afforded the essential right to health care, Dr. Caitlin Bernard stands as an unwavering symbol of resilience and determination. Her battle against the state of Indiana over the past year is rife with baseless accusations and relentless persecution, evoking haunting echoes of a modern-day witch hunt. Fortunately, this time, the accuser got burned.

Last summer, Dr. Bernard, an Indianapolis obstetrician-gynecologist, faced unwarranted scrutiny from Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita. False accusations arose after she provided medical care to a 10-year-old rape victim shortly after Roe v. Wade was overturned. Despite evidence proving her innocence, Rokita spread misinformation about Dr. Bernard's actions.

On May 25, the Indiana Medical Licensing Board conducted a grueling 15-hour hearing to evaluate Dr. Bernard's case and the care she provided to the 10-year-old who was denied assistance in Ohio. While the board cleared her of failing to report child abuse or being unfit to practice, they acknowledged breaches in patient privacy due to the “unique” circumstances surrounding the Dobbs decision and the political attacks by Rokita. Dr. Bernard's employer, IU Health, disagreed with the board's decision, stating they “believe Dr. Bernard was compliant with privacy laws.” Ultimately, the board didn’t suspend Dr. Bernard’s license, allowing her to continue providing care.

In other words, Rokita lost.

Abortion doctor keeps license: Indiana Dr. Caitlin Bernard violated girl's privacy in abortion case, medical board finds

After enduring relentless harassment from the state's attorney general for nearly a year, the hearing confirmed what Dr. Bernard's supporters already understood: Indiana's AG had targeted her to intimidate abortion providers and undermine the legitimacy of abortion care. Despite all the adversity, Dr. Bernard stood firm, demonstrating remarkable dedication to her patients and profession. However, the extent to which she has been compelled to go in order to provide safe and legal care amidst abusive and hostile circumstances is unacceptable.

The attacks have been so despicable that four attorneys ​assigned to abortion-related litigation resigned from the Indiana AG’s office before Bernard's case could be argued in front of the Board. Rokita made a mockery of his office when he and lawmakers used a child’s tragedy as an excuse to intimidate abortion providers. His cruelty knows no limits.

Dr. Bernard's colleagues recently published “Doctors think ‘advocate’ is a dirty word. But it’s our ethical responsibility,” an opinion piece, applauding Dr. Bernard’s efforts.

In it, they state “... if physicians don’t stand up to protect patient decision-making, legislative bodies will continue to pass laws to limit care in ways that put individual and public health at risk. ... In many states, this puts us doctors in the agonizing position of having to choose between offering ethical, evidence-based care and care that is legal.”

Dr. Bernard’s colleagues also address the American Medical Association Code of Ethics, which states “physicians have an ethical responsibility to seek change when they believe the requirements of law or policy are contrary to the best interests of patients.” This is exactly what Dr. Bernard has been doing.

More: Abortion doctor's team exploring options after fine, reprimand over privacy violations

The Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the constitutional right to abortion has plunged our nation into an urgent health care crisis. In this critical juncture, Indiana has emerged as a pivotal state for preserving abortion access in the region. Now, more than ever, the responsibility falls upon each of us who support abortion access to step forward and vehemently defend providers navigating a treacherous landscape of politically motivated assaults. We must unite, refusing to yield when the Rokitas of the world propagate their deceptive narratives. This is not the first battle, nor will it be the last.

The struggle to uphold what is right is anything but easy, and Dr. Bernard has consistently placed her profession, reputation and livelihood on the line to champion public health. She exemplifies true leadership, serving as an inspiration for us all. It’s truly an extraordinary privilege to collaborate with and support providers like Dr. Bernard. If you are acquainted with an abortion provider, I implore you to join me in making your support clear to them and your community today. Together, we can create an unyielding chorus of solidarity in defense of reproductive health care.

Rebecca Gibron is CEO of Planned Parenthood of Indiana.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Abortion providers in Indiana are under attack. Here's how to help.