Improving Evidence Based Practices of Long Acting Reversible Contraceptives in a Rural Community of Northeast Tennessee

Document Type

Presentation

Publication Date

4-1-2017

Description

INTRODUCTION: Intrauterine devices (IUDs) and implants have been shown to decrease the rate of unintended pregnancies. These methods also known as Long Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs) are considered the birth control of choice for women of childbearing age, including adolescents, from multiple professional medical associations. However, even with strong recommendations, LARCs are widely underused in the United States, especially in rural areas. This research is based in the Rural Health Services Consortium (RHSC) clinic in Rogersville, Tennessee. This research looks at knowledge and use of LARCs in this clinic before and after receiving training in IUD and implant insertion and removal. METHODS: The physicians, nurse practitioners and physician assistants affiliated with the Rural Health Services Consortium were invited to attend both an IUD and an Implant training. Those who agreed to participate in the study were asked to complete a survey, which addressed current knowledge of LARCs, contraceptive counseling practice and LARC referral practice. Surveys were de-identified and linked to each individual provider through a person specific randomized code. Providers were then trained and certified in the insertion and removal of both IUDs and Implants. Following training the providers provided a survey assessing any change in knowledge and intended practice. At three and six months the same providers will be given an additional surveys with their individualized codes. These surveys assessed the providers' knowledge of LARCs and current practice regarding contraceptive counseling and LARC referral. All survey data was compiled and analyzed for statistical significance using paired T tests. Data was analyzed to identify significant changes in knowledge or practice following training. RESULTS: A t-test revealed a statistically significant increase in provider comfort level with discussing the risks and benefits associated with both IUDs (pretest M=1.92, posttest M=2.92, t = -3.09, p<.01) and implants (pretest M = 1.83, posttest M = 2.83, t = -2.76, p< .05). Regarding practice behavior, a t-test found a statistically significant increase in provider recommendation/discussion of Mirena/Skyla (pretest M= 2.09, posttest M= 3.08, t = -2.14, p<.05) and implants (pretest M = 2.25,

Location

Johnson City, TN

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