Norplant prescribing in family practice.

A descriptive study of Norplant prescribing experiences training and attitudes among South Carolina physicians revealed a need for improved training opportunities. A questionnaire mailed to all 1201 family and general practice physicians licensed in South Carolina was returned by 540 (43%) physicians. 200 (39%) of these respondents had prescribed Norplant for women seeking contraception. Female physicians younger physicians and those who listed their specialty as family rather than general practice were significantly more likely than their counterparts to prescribe this method. The mean number of Norplant insertions per month was 1.9; only 7 physicians performed 10 or more insertions per month. Only 13 physicians reported any insertion-related complications (primarily bruising). Norplant removal was reported by 135 (24%) physicians with an average of 4.4 removals annually. Complications during removal primarily difficulties locating the capsules were reported by 52% of physicians. 82% of physicians had received some form of training in Norplant insertion including observing another physician and 69% had been trained in capsule removal; formal training (residency or workshop) in insertion and removal was reported by only 57% and 53% respectively. Training both reduced insertion time and prepared physicians to manage procedural complications.