Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptive (LARC) Methods

This measure should be used as an access measure to identify very low rates of LARC use (less than 1-2% use); very low rates may signal barriers to LARC provision that should be addressed through training, changes in reimbursement practices, quality improvement processes, or other steps. The barriers to obtaining LARC are well documented, and include client physician lack of knowledge, financial constraints, and logistical issues. The Contraceptive Care – Access to LARC measure should NOT be used to encourage high rates of use as this may lead to coercive practices. This is especially important given the historical context of coercive practices related to contraception. For the same reason, it is not appropriate to use the Contraceptive Care – Access to LARC measure in a pay-for-performance context.