Global health: science and practice, June 2016
Accessible contraceptive implant removal services: an essential element of quality service delivery and scale-up
Christofield M and Lacoste M
Use of contraceptive implants has surged in recent years, yet emerging data show a deficit of service delivery capacity and coverage for implant removals. The number of projected removals needed in the 69 FP2020 focus countries in 2018 (4.9-5.8 million) is more than twice that estimated for 2015 (2.2 million). We must proactively plan and execute high-quality implant removal services in order to fulfill the exceptional promise of implants in meeting client needs and advancing toward FP2020 goals.
Advice: What Would Quality Implant Removal Services Look Like?
- Supplies for implant removal are available at the point of service.
- Provider is competent and confident.
- Systems are in place for managing difficult removals.
- Counseling, side-effect management, and resupply and switching are offered.
- Client knows when and where to go for removal.
- Service is available when client wants it, within a reasonable distance.
- Service is affordable (or free).
- Removal data are collected and monitored.
Source: Compiled from the Implant Removal Task Force of the Implants Access Program Operations Group.
Comment: We often see papers about the value of contraceptive implant. It is good to realize that, next to insertion services, there must also be a good removal service available. The Implant Access Program Operations Group posted very important recommendations, summarized above. (HMV)
