LARC Series: Improving Patient Experiences with Long Acting Reversible Contraceptives
Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) methods currently available in the United States include the implant (Nexplanon) and intrauterine devices (ParaGard, Mirena, Skyla, Liletta and Kyleena). LARCs are the most effective methods of birth control available today. They are extremely safe, easy to place and can prevent pregnancy for 3 to 12 years. They are recommended as the first-line choice of contraception for teens and adult women by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Pediatrics. Despite their benefits and broad support of the medical community, a very small percentage of all those using birth control in the U.S. choose a LARC method.
A team of national experts will provide practical strategies, proven tips and case studies for increasing patient satisfaction with and usage of LARC methods. This course will also address strategies for removing barriers to LARC access and effective age-appropriate contraceptive counseling techniques.
- Physicians
- Clinicians
- Nurses
- Certified Nurse Midwives
- Medical Assistants
- Health Educators
- Counselors + Social Workers
The course has four modules which can be completed in any order and at your own pace. Each of the four modules consists of an expert presentation, downloadable resources to share with staff in your health setting and a brief quiz.
Course Objectives:
Chapter 1: Managing LARC Side Effects
After this session, you will be able to:
- Describe the most common ‘nuisance’ side effects that patients may experience when using a LARC method.
- Identify counseling strategies that prepare patients for what to expect when they use LARC methods.
- Identify two practical management strategies to alleviate LARC side effects.
Chapter 2: LARC Methods: Myths and Truths
After this session, you will be able to:
- Identify common myths held in the US about long acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs).
- Discuss “true” potential side effects or serious complications, mechanisms of action and efficacy of IUCs/IUDs and the Implant.
Chapter 3: LARC Case Studies
After this session, you will be able to:
- Describe three main barriers to LARC utilization.
- Describe how to use the US Medical Eligibility Criteria as a clinical resource for ensuring LARCs are used safely.
Chapter 4: How to Talk with Teens About LARCs
After this session, you will be able to:
- Discuss a framework for talking to teens about LARC birth control methods.
- Identify key messaging to include when counseling teens about LARC methods.
- Identify ways to incorporate STD screening and prevention messaging during contraceptive counseling for teens.
The course fee includes CEU processing (CPH = 4.0; CHES = 4.0; Nursing = 4.8; CME = 4.0).
Certified in Public Health (CPH):
This event was sponsored by Essential Access Health, an approved provider of CPH Recertification Credits by the National Board of Public Health Examiners for 4.0 credits.
Health Educators (CHES®):
Essential Access Health, provider #98021, is designated as a provider of Category 1 continuing education contact hours in health education by the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing, Inc. Health educators attending this program may report up to 4.0 contact hours.
Nursing:
Provider approved by California Board of Registered Nursing. Provider #CEP 12241, for 4.8 contact hours.
CME:
Essential Access Health is accredited by the California Medical Association (CMA) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
Essential Access Health designates this Live Activity for a maximum of 4.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.