A Pediatric- and Adolescent-Focused Medication Abortion Curriculum for Multidisciplinary Trainees

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Reproductive Health
• Adolescent Medicine

Background:

• Post-Roe v. Wade, 22 states restrict abortion access, impacting adolescents and young adults (AYAs).
• Limited safe and timely access to abortion care for AYAs due to provider training gaps.
• Absence of a dedicated medication abortion (MAB) curriculum for AYAs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate an AYA-focused MAB curriculum for pediatric trainees.
• To address the gap in specialized training for providing MAB to AYAs.
• To enhance provider knowledge and confidence in MAB care for AYAs.

Main Methods:

• A blended learning curriculum using online modules and a workshop, designed with Kern's Six Steps.
• Pre/post surveys assessed knowledge, values, and intentions, with qualitative analysis of open-ended responses.
• Evaluation involved 52 learners across pediatric residents and nurse practitioner students over the 2023-2024 academic year.

Main Results:

• Significant increase in knowledge scores post-curriculum (60% to 90%, p < .01).
• Learner intentions to provide, refer, or advocate for MAB care did not significantly change (4.3 vs. 4.3).
• 85% of learners rated the curriculum as excellent or outstanding; case-based learning and role-play were highly valued.

Conclusions:

• The developed curriculum effectively improved trainees' knowledge and confidence in providing MAB for AYAs.
• The curriculum helps trainees anticipate challenging cases in MAB provision.
• Generalizability may be influenced by local political climate, legal restrictions, and institutional support.