Long-acting reversible contraception and medication abortion: a national descriptive survey of Australian community pharmacist knowledge, attitudes and practices

Abstract Introduction Community pharmacists can play a key role in the prevention and management of unintended pregnancy, including in the provision of counselling and by dispensing contraception, and for medication abortion (MA). However, Australian pharmacists’ practice and knowledge of effective contraceptive methods, including long-acting reversible contraception (LARC), is unknown, and few were registered to dispense MA at the time of the study. Aim Our aim was to understand the knowledge, attitudes and practices of Australian community pharmacists in LARC and MA care. Method We conducted a cross-sectional national online survey of community pharmacists from July until October 2021. Participants were recruited through convenience sampling via mail and partner organisations’ emails, newsletters, and mailing lists. We used descriptive statistical analysis, including counts, proportions, Pearson’s chi-squared tests and Poisson regression for data analysis. Our descriptive survey forms part of the Australian Contraception and Abortion Primary Care Practitioner Support Network (AusCAPPS) mixed-methods project (ACTRN12622000655741). Results There were 533 eligible responses; 72% (n = 385) self-identified as women, and 71% (n = 378) were from metropolitan areas. Respondents' correct LARC knowledge varied, with 88% understanding LARC effectiveness, 67.7% understanding return to fertility, and 65.9% understanding LARC suitability for nulliparous women. Most pharmacists were registered to dispense MA (70%; n = 373), although fewer than half discussed LARC at the time of dispensing MA. Those working outside metropolitan areas were more likely to be registered to dispense MA and feel that they had the knowledge and confidence to dispense MA. Conclusion With community pharmacists increasing scope of service in relation to contraception and MA, ongoing education and support will ensure they have accurate information for the provision of LARC and MA.