How can the AusCAPPS Network virtual community of practice support professional development of nurse practitioners and endorsed midwives as providers of long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) and early medical abortion (EMA)?

Uptake of reliable and cost-effective long-acting reversible contraception (LARC), such as intrauterine devices (IUDs) and implants, is lower in Australia compared to similarly developed countries, and medical abortion can be difficult to access. Changes to regulations that authorise health professions to provide LARC and medical abortion services is one action to support increased access. Changes to state regulations have authorised nurse practitioners and midwives to provide LARC and medical abortion services in some states. Through a literature review and key informant interviews, this research seeks to understand how the AusCAPPS Network, a virtual community of practice for primary care practitioners, can support education and continuing professional development for nurse practitioners and endorsed midwives in tis areas of practice.