In a proactive move to combat the escalating rates of teen pregnancies and abortions, a ground breaking service offering long-lasting contraceptive devices has been introduced in Solihull. This initiative aims to address health inequalities in the borough, particularly in areas where termination rates and teen pregnancies have been notably high.
Spearheaded by Solihealth, a collaborative effort involving all GP practices in Solihull, the new service streamlines access to long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC) like coils and implants. Dr. Tara Shah, a GP in Chelmsley Wood and clinical director for North Solihull PCN, shed light on the challenges that prompted the establishment of this service, citing a shortage of available fitters in GP practices and extended waiting periods of up to 12 months.
Dr. Shah highlighted the substantial reduction in waiting times since the inception of the LARC service, now capped at a maximum of three weeks. She acknowledged the considerable variation in contraceptive uptake across the borough and stressed the project’s primary focus on ensuring more equitable access.
“Some practices were doing 200 percent the expected amount. The main focus of the project is to ensure access is more equitable,” Dr. Shah explained. The mobile clinic, which travels across the borough, has already served 120 women, all of whom provided positive feedback.
Dr. Shah drew attention to the concerning rise in termination and teen pregnancy rates in both north and south-central Solihull. The service caters to women of all ages, with some under-16 beneficiaries. Previously, some women faced staggering waits of six to 12 months for contraceptive fittings, an issue the new service aims to rectify.
The GP underscored the reliability of long-lasting contraception compared to oral contraceptives, particularly for women with busy lifestyles. Dr. Shah expressed confidence that the new clinic would contribute significantly to reducing teen pregnancies and abortions in Solihull.
“It is heartening to witness the service being utilized by numerous women. Many ladies are availing the service from areas of Solihull that previously exhibited a very poor uptake of LARC, which was one of the primary reasons for establishing this service – to ensure equality of access and provision,” she noted.
Dr. Shah emphasized the success of delivering services from local hubs and hinted at potential expansions and additional services in the future. “LARC is a favoured choice for women, and I am optimistic it will help curtail the conception rate among our under 18s. We anticipate observing a decline in abortions as well, a concern that has heightened over the past few years,” she added.
So, how does the service function? GPs unable to offer long-lasting contraception can refer patients to Solihealth’s hub. This collaborative effort is funded by Solihull Council’s Public Health team, reflecting a commitment to integrated care systems. Councillor Karen Grinsell highlighted the pressing need for the contraceptive service, given the significant challenges posed by unwanted pregnancies.
“Unwanted pregnancy is a substantial issue, and this service not only aids in addressing health inequalities within the borough but also directly correlates with rates of terminations and underage pregnancies, both of which we aim to reduce,” said Councillor Grinsell. The integrated care system, with local GPs actively participating, signifies a comprehensive approach to reproductive health and empowering women with choices.
In conclusion, Solihull’s innovative contraceptive service represents a promising step towards a more inclusive and responsive healthcare system. By addressing the root causes of health inequalities and providing accessible long-lasting contraceptives, the initiative aims to empower women, reduce teen pregnancies, and contribute to a decline in abortion rates. The success of this project highlights the effectiveness of collaborative efforts in enhancing reproductive health services within local communities.
