Obama officials said the administration’s goal is to make the rule clearer rather than force doctors to provide abortions.

“The Bush provider-refusal regulation has created confusion about the scope and original intent of the law,” one official said.

“It went into effect in the last days of the Bush administration, claiming to bring clarity to current law. But instead it created much confusion. . . .

“Not only does it potentially make it harder for women to get the care they need, but it is worded so vaguely, that some have argued it could limit counseling, family planning, even blood transfusions and end-of-life care.”