A Mixed Methods Study of Contraceptive Counseling and Care at a Federally Qualified Health Center in Maryland

This study examined the experience of contraceptive counseling and care in a Federally Qualified Health Center in Maryland. Patients attending medical visits in 2021 were surveyed using the Interpersonal Quality of Family Planning scale to assess the quality of contraceptive counseling. Medical chart reviews were performed to identify alignment between contraceptive care received, and preferences patients had expressed. Primary care providers, reproductive health providers, and a subgroup of patients were interviewed to further contextualize survey and chart review findings. The average item score for the 94 survey participants was 4.39 (SD: 0.9) out of 5. Factor analysis showed high internal consistency reliability (alpha  =  0.96). Eighty percent of patients received contraceptive care that aligned with their preferences, 4% did not, and 16% lacked clear contraceptive preferences. Qualitative analysis revealed that patients desired more guidance from providers in selecting a contraceptive method, while providers noted logistical and insurance-related barriers to care. While the quality of contraceptive counseling was high, patient experience of care may be improved by implementing team-based care.