| Description |
Background: Levonorgestrel emergency contraception (LNG EC), commonly known as Plan B®, is an FDA-approved over-the-counter medication used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. It plays a crucial role in reducing unintended pregnancies in the United States. College campuses report similar LNG EC usage rates as the general population, and campuses are often seen as ideal places to provide reproductive healthcare. Local Problem: In Utah, LNG EC usage rates among 18-24-year-olds align with the national average. However, high costs and the stigma associated with obtaining LNG EC remain significant barriers. Additionally, many local pharmacies lock the product or store it behind counters, requiring face-to-face interactions that may deter students from seeking it out. Methods: A needs assessment was conducted at a mid-sized university. Surveys were distributed to 10 stakeholders to assess the feasibility, usability, and satisfaction regarding LNG EC access on campus. Preliminary survey data from 150 students were also collected to gauge the acceptability and accessibility of LNG EC. Interventions: A Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis was conducted to assess current campus accessibility and to identify internal and external barriers. A benchmark analysis of similar universities was used to develop an implementation strategy for an LNG EC vending machine. Stakeholders were presented with the implementation strategy, and a follow-up survey was conducted to evaluate the project's feasibility and satisfaction. An executive summary, including updated resources and the results from the preliminary student survey, was provided to the faculty advisor overseeing the project. Results: The SWOT analysis highlighted several facilitators: collaboration with student groups and faculty, positive external trends, benchmark data supporting the vending machine concept, and financial assistance through grants. Key barriers identified were limited student access, the region's legal and cultural climate, and challenges in navigating the campus system, which delayed survey distribution and data collection. Survey results revealed that students recognized the importance of access to reproductive healthcare, with most supporting the introduction of an LNG EC vending machine on campus. Due to administrative barriers, the student survey was completed after the stakeholder survey, but its results were included in the executive summary. The stakeholder survey (N = 10) found that 90% of respondents considered the vending machine "feasible" or "very feasible." Barriers to implementation included stigma and lack of awareness (70%), state laws (50%), and privacy concerns (40%). Facilitators included administrative support (90%), student engagement (80%), and available funding (70%). All participants supported the introduction of the vending machine on campus. Conclusion: The implementation of an LNG EC vending machine at this university is a feasible strategy to improve access to reproductive healthcare. While strengths exist to support its introduction, some gaps must be addressed, particularly in coordinating with campus administration. Ongoing collaboration with faculty and student organizations will be critical for successful implementation and long-term sustainability. |
