Contraception is an essential preventive health service, and the Association of Reproductive Health Professionals (ARHP) and Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) support the use and availability of all safe and effective methods of contraception to prevent unintended pregnancies. Health care professionals' biases and gaps in knowledge about hormonal contraception may unnecessarily limit this important option for many women. Through A Case-Based Approach for Addressing Hormonal Contraception, ARHP and PPFA present real-world case studies designed to improve providers' knowledge in this area and their ability to communicate effectively with patients about hormonal contraception.
ARHP can arrange speakers to present on a variety of reproductive health topics at clinical conferences or grand rounds. Click here to learn about the available topics and programs.
For more information, please contact the ARHP, at education@arhp.org or (202) 466-3825.
Background
Many health care providers do not feel fully proficient or current on the various methods of contraception or may hold misconceptions about available options. 1,2 This program aims to change the knowledge of providers to enable them to offer a full range of contraceptive methods to patients. It will also help providers develop greater clarity on the risks and benefits of hormonal contraception, allowing them to better help women make health decisions based on an accurate perception of risk.
Program Design and Educational Activities
ARHP and PPFA have developed A Case-Based Approach for Addressing Hormonal Contraception to improve providers’ proficiency with the range of hormonal contraceptives. All program materials are based on the most current research and evidence in the field and the expertise of the Expert Medical Advisory Committee. Program components include:
Curriculum Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of these sessions, participants will be able to:
- Recognize potential instances where unnecessary discontinuation of hormonal contraceptives may occur.
- Apply principles of patient-centered care in provision of hormonal contraceptives.
- Utilize effective counseling strategies for candidates of hormonal contraceptives.
Intended Audience and Accreditation
Educational offerings have been developed for health care providers (physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, nurse midwives, pharmacists, and other members of the health care team) to help them better understand and manage the challenges of providing hormonal contraception.
The live sessions associated with this program are accredited for continuing medical education, nursing contact hours, pharmacology, and pharmacist credits.
Funding
This project is funded through an independent educational grant from Ortho Women's Health and Urology.
________________________________
- Grimes DA. Oral contraceptives today: changes, challenges, risks, and benefits. Available at: http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/559116_2. Accessed December 3, 2007.
- Stanwood NL, Garrett JM, Konrad TR. Obstetrician-Gynecologists and the Intrauterine Device: A Survey of Attitudes and Practice. Obstet Gynecol. 2002;99:275- 80.
