Long-acting reversible contraception prescribing coverage by nurse practitioners and midwives in Australia

BackgroundExpanded patient access to long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) is needed support choice and efficacious forms of contraception. Little known about nurse practitioner (NP) midwife LARC prescribing.AimsTo examine prescribing by NPs midwives in Australia.MethodsA cross-sectional study Australian Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme dispensing data from 2018 2021 for females aged 15–54. Age‐standardised rates were calculated state, remoteness area, level 3 statistical areas (SA3s).FindingsDespite a 1.6 fold increase since 2018, accounted 0.82 % (n = 2184) prescriptions dispensed 2021. The percentage services was greater outer regional (2.21 %) lowest major cities (0.68 higher the implant (0.92 compared with hormonal intrauterine device (0.76 %). proportion total SA3s where NP/midwife prescribed increased 23.35 29.94 highest (42.6 remote (18.8 When stratified state/territory, coverage Capital Territory (50.0 Northern (11.1 %).Discussion conclusionOur findings suggest that whilst there has been an NP prescribing, overall rate remains low across Australia appears fragmented. are well placed enhance women’s contraception, but this requires future efforts identify address critical barriers (e.g. legislative, funding, training) service provision.