The Family Planning Subcommittee is a newly established initiative by the Pacific Society for Reproductive Health (PSRH), aimed at enhancing access to and education about family planning services across Pacific Island Countries (PICs). This subcommittee recognizes the essential role of family planning in improving reproductive health outcomes and empowering individuals and communities.
Vision and Objectives
The Family Planning Subcommittee is committed to:
- Advocating for the integration of family planning services into national and community health programmes.
- Strengthening health systems to ensure equitable access to contraception and reproductive health education.
- Supporting healthcare providers with the knowledge and tools necessary to deliver high-quality, culturally appropriate family planning services.
Collaboration and Partnerships
The subcommittee benefits from the leadership of:
Chairperson: Prof. Kirsten Black
Board Representative: Dr. Nancy Hamura, Prof. Deborah Bateson
In addition to its existing plans, the subcommittee is forging partnerships to broaden its impact. PSRH has been invited to collaborate with the Asia-Pacific Preconception Health Network, creating new opportunities for knowledge-sharing and regional cooperation.
Key Initiatives
The subcommittee is in the early stages of developing its work plan, with priorities including:
- Capacity Building: Designing training programmes to equip healthcare providers with skills to offer comprehensive family planning services.
- Community Education: Developing culturally sensitive educational materials to increase awareness of family planning options.
- Policy Advocacy: Supporting policies that ensure equitable access to family planning services across the Pacific.
- Research and Evidence: Collaborating with partners to collect and analyse data on family planning needs and outcomes in the region.
How to Get Involved
The Family Planning Subcommittee welcomes collaboration from healthcare professionals, policymakers, and organisations dedicated to improving reproductive health. Opportunities to contribute include:
- Partnering with PSRH to design and implement family planning initiatives.
- Volunteering expertise in training, education, or programme evaluation.
- Providing financial support to sustain and expand the subcommittee’s efforts.
By building momentum and fostering partnerships, the Family Planning Subcommittee aims to address critical gaps in family planning services and empower individuals to make informed reproductive health choices.
Contact PSRH:
For more information or to get involved, email PSRH at secretariat@psrh.org.nz.