Implanon Insertion Now More Accessible in Australia
Why the Government Is Supporting Long-Acting Contraception?
Background
Access to reliable, affordable contraception is a key part of preventive healthcare. In recent years, the Australian Government has taken steps to improve funding and Medicare support for long-acting reversible contraception (LARC), including Implanon insertion. This shift reflects growing recognition that effective contraception supports women’s health, family planning, and broader public health outcomes.
Why the Australian Government Is Supporting Implanon
Implanon is one of the most effective forms of contraception available. It is a small implant placed under the skin of the upper arm that provides continuous protection against pregnancy for up to three years. Because it does not rely on daily adherence like the oral contraceptive pill, it has significantly lower failure rates in real-world use.
Government support and subsidised insertion fees are driven by several important goals:
1. Improving access to highly effective contraception
Unintended pregnancies can have major social, financial, and health impacts. By making long-acting contraception more accessible and affordable, more women can choose reliable options that suit their lifestyle and reproductive plans.
2. Supporting preventive healthcare
Effective contraception allows individuals and families to plan pregnancies at the right time, which is associated with better maternal and child health outcomes. Preventive care reduces long-term healthcare costs and supports healthier communities.
3. Reducing reliance on short-term methods
Methods that require daily or frequent action, such as the pill, are effective when used correctly but can be difficult to maintain consistently. Long-acting options like Implanon remove this burden and provide continuous protection without needing to remember doses.
4. Addressing cost barriers
Upfront procedure costs have historically been a barrier for some patients. Increased Medicare rebates and support for insertion procedures aim to reduce out-of-pocket expenses and make this option more widely available across different socioeconomic groups.
5. Empowering reproductive choice
Access to a range of contraceptive options allows women to make informed decisions about their bodies, careers, education, and family planning. Supporting LARC is part of a broader commitment to women’s health equity.
Benefits of Implanon
Implanon is widely used and clinically trusted because it offers:
Over 99% effectiveness at preventing pregnancy
Long-term protection for up to three years
A discreet, low-maintenance option
Rapid return to fertility once removed
Suitability for many women who cannot take oestrogen-containing contraception
For many patients, it provides peace of mind and convenience, removing the need for daily medication or frequent GP visits for prescription renewals.
Who Might Consider Implanon?
Implanon may be suitable for:
Women seeking long-term contraception without daily effort
Those wanting a reversible method
Patients who prefer a non-oestrogen option
Women looking to space or delay pregnancies safely
A GP consultation is important to discuss individual health history, suitability, and any potential side effects before insertion.
Local Access
At Key Health Medical Centres, patients can discuss long-acting contraception with an experienced GP and access Implanon insertion as part of comprehensive women’s health care.
Dr Ashleigh Key Health St Leonards offers bulk-billed consultations and Implanon insertion for eligible patients, helping ensure this effective contraceptive option remains accessible and affordable for the local community.
