Response of patients and doctors to the 1983 'pill scare'

The immediate response of patients and doctors to the recent adverse publicity about the combined oral contraceptive ;Pill' were studied in two separate locations: a major family planning clinic and a large provincial health centre. Consultations arising from anxiety about the Pill were less than the general practitioners had anticipated but extra sessions were required at the family planning clinic to cope with the increased demand. Differences in the responses of doctors were observed both within and between the two locations. Doctors at the family planning clinic were more likely to change the brand of Pill, whereas doctors at the health centre were more likely to offer reassurance only. The respective roles of primary care teams and family planning clinics in the provision of a comprehensive contraception service to the community are discussed.