The federal AMA has provided a submission to the MRAC Phase 2 review of long-acting reversible contraception (LARC), strongly opposing allowing midwives to perform intrauterine device (IUD) insertions and removals under Medicare.
Our submission opposes expanding MBS access to endorsed midwives for IUD insertion and removal due to the significant risk of care fragmentation and the imperative to preserve the central role of general practitioners and obstetricians and gynaecologists in women's health.
While the AMA supports the aim of improving access to LARC services, particularly through general practice, the submission warns that complex procedures require advanced training to manage serious complications. It notes that the government can improve access to LARC by fixing GP training bottlenecks, with many GPs keen to provide these services but facing long delays for accredited training.
Our submission acknowledges the significant progress made in the first phase of the MRAC review, particularly the increase in MBS rebates and the introduction of new items to improve access and affordability for women and girls across Australia. These reforms represent a positive step for women's health and reproductive autonomy.
The AMA launched its revised Women's Health Position Statement last month, which maintains access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services, screening, and information is critical to safeguarding and promoting the health of women.
