A groundbreaking study led by Professor Danielle Mazza AM is empowering nurses to play a pivotal role in providing contraceptive and medical abortion care in rural and regional areas. The study, known as the ORIENT Study, focuses on equipping nurses with the knowledge and skills necessary to insert contraceptive devices like the Implanon implant and prescribe medical abortions. The primary objective is to assess whether nurse-led services can effectively reduce unplanned pregnancies in these underserved regions.
Commencing from August 1, 2023, new regulations by the Australian government empower nurse practitioners to prescribe medical abortion, making it an opportune time to explore the potential of nurse-led care. Professor Danielle Mazza emphasizes the interest that nurses have in women’s health and their willingness to provide these essential services.
The study, conducted in collaboration with rural and regional general practitioners (GPs), nurses, and patients, follows a co-design approach to ensure diverse perspectives are considered. Professor Mazza underscores the importance of involving all stakeholders in the process, including receptionists and practice managers, to comprehensively understand the dynamics of nurse-led care and its impact on patients’ journeys through GP practices.
Addressing prevalent myths and misconceptions surrounding medical abortion is a critical aspect of the study. Professor Mazza acknowledges the existing stigmatization and lack of confidence among some GPs and nurses in providing abortion services. The study aims to debunk these myths and enhance confidence by implementing team-based approaches, where nurses take a leading role in the process, fostering teamwork, clear delegation of responsibilities, and trust within the practice.
With 32 rural and regional GP practices actively participating in the study, Professor Mazza’s team is providing training to both GPs and nurses, guiding each practice in creating a tailored plan for implementing the new nurse-led services. The study, scheduled to conclude in 2025, will analyze the services delivered before and after the implementation of the nurse-led approach, offering valuable insights into its effectiveness.
The ORIENT Study, funded by the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) with $1,928,519, holds the promise of providing evidence-based support for nurse-led models of reproductive health care in Australia. Professor Danielle Mazza expresses optimism that the study’s positive outcomes could lead to improved access to contraception and abortion services in rural and regional areas, ultimately addressing the fundamental needs of women and facilitating the realization of their desired life paths.
