It is "clear" there are differences in access to abortion services across Ireland, according to the former Master of the Rotunda Hospital.
Consultant in Obstetrics and Gynaecology Professor Fergal Malone said some parts of the country are well served, while in other parts, it is "challenging" as he described "conscientious objection" as one of the factors.
However, he added it is not the main factor.
Prof Malone was reacting to the recommendations contained in a review of abortion services earlier this week and described them as "well thought out" and "pragmatic".
Speaking on RTÉ's Saturday with Colm Ó Mongáin, he said if there is a large hospital providing abortion services, a small hospital nearby may take the view not to provide this service.
"That is not really fair on the larger hospitals and also not fair on local families, who might prefer to stay in their local community to get services," Prof Malone said.
"That does require strong management from healthcare leaders to make sure that is not happening."
He also addressed the issue that most GPs are not offering abortion services.
"From talking to GPs, I get the sense it is just a clinical volume in their practice."
Prof Malone said that he does not believe that the proportion of GPs who are conscientious objectors are any different to the proportion of nurses or obstetricians or other service providers.
