Family Planning NSW Hunter clinic is trialing a process aimed to improve service delivery of long-acting contraceptive methods. Traditionally, clients interested in an intra-uterine device (IUD) were required to attend an initial assessment visit prior to a second consultation for insertion of the device. Family Planning NSW Hunter is trialing a new process for providing IUD insertion in a single clinic visit, following completion of an on-line questionnaire.
Methods: Since October 3, 2012, clients enquiring about IUDs were given the option of the usual two visit process, or completing an on-line questionnaire followed by IUD insertion in one visit, if suitable. Clients opting for a single visit process were e-mailed information and a link to an on-line questionnaire. Completed questionnaires were reviewed by a clinic nurse who then phoned clients. Women were advised to attend an assessment visit if potential issues were identified requiring further discussion or assessment, or were booked for IUD insertion at an appropriate time. Outcomes were monitored for all clients who opted for the single visit process.
Results: Of 71 women sent e-mails between 3rd October 2012 and 21st January 2013, 52 (73.2%) submitted questionnaires. Twenty-four of 52 respondents (46.2%) were assessed as suitable for a single visit process, and same-day insertion was successful for 19 women (79.2%). No complications were experienced on the day of insertion. Slightly over half (53.8%) of respondents were advised to attend for an assessment visit. Only three of these women indicated an absolute contra-indication to IUD insertion.
Conclusion: A same-day IUD insertion process following completion of an on-line questionnaire is feasible and safe. This pilot study is ongoing, with criteria for determining suitability for a single visit process under review.