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Providing Quality Family Planning Services in the United States - Recommendations of the US Office of Population Affairs - Revised 2024

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The "Providing Quality Family Planning Services in the United States: Recommendations of the U.S. Office of Population Affairs (Revised 2024)" outlines an updated approach to delivering high-quality sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services. The guidelines, revised from their 2014 iteration, address the need for inclusive, person-centered care that respects the diverse backgrounds and needs of all individuals, regardless of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, race, or disability.<br /><br />Key updates emphasize equity and person-centeredness, advocating for care that integrates an understanding of structural and interpersonal biases, such as racism and ableism. The guidelines suggest providers screen for reproductive desires using open-ended, patient-centric dialogues rather than singular frameworks like reproductive life planning, which previous recommendations proposed.<br /><br />The updated guidelines address several SRH services, including contraception, STI and HIV prevention and care, family building, pregnancy testing and counseling, and early pregnancy management. They incorporate advancements in health care delivery methods such as telehealth and offer strategies for improving access, like extended contraceptive supply and same-day services.<br /><br />The document introduces performance measures to identify and improve areas needing quality enhancement within SRH services. These measures, when incorporated into health care systems' quality improvement processes, aim to ensure service delivery is equitable and tailored to patients' experiences.<br /><br />Overall, the updated recommendations set a new standard for SRH care, promoting broad access to comprehensive, inclusive services across various settings. The document highlights the importance of continuous updates to align with new scientific findings and evolving health care practices.

Keywords

family planning

sexual and reproductive health

inclusive care

equity

person-centered care

telehealth

contraception

performance measures

health care delivery

quality improvement