RANZCOG guideline expected to be ‘helpful’ for GPs

The RACGP has expressed its support for a draft clinical guideline on abortion care compiled by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG).
 
In a response sent to RANZCOG last week, the college said the guideline is detailed and will support GPs involved in reproductive healthcare.
 
‘The RACGP supports holistic approaches to reproductive health, which includes improving access to safe medical or surgical abortion services for women, and we commend the RANZCOG on developing this comprehensive guideline,’ the college correspondence states.  
 
‘This guideline will be helpful for GPs who support women in the various aspects of reproductive health.
 
‘A sound implementation strategy and accompanying support will be key to ensuring the guideline is used in the primary care setting.’
 
The RACGP also highlighted the importance of patient choice and of making information about Australian products easily accessible.
 
As well as the specific remarks, the college made a general comment noting the importance of advice that is inclusive of trans and gender diverse and intersex people. It recommended that the authors ensure content and language reflects all groups.
 
The draft guideline is the first bi-national evidence-based document to be developed by RANZCOG and is aimed at registered health professionals who provide abortion advice and care.
 
A clinical guideline published by the New Zealand Ministry of Health on Abortion in 2020 provides the basis for the RANZCOG draft document.
 
RANZCOG has said recent legislative changes in Australia and New Zealand have provided ‘a strong impetus’ for consistent, evidence-based guidance on abortion care.
 
Consultation has now closed. RANZCOG stated earlier this year that the guideline is expected to be published by the end of 2023, a date it said is ‘contingent’ on deliberations.
 
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