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iMedicalApps: Decide + Be Ready Review

Discussions about contraception options and prescriptions and procedures for contraception are some of the most important conversations during well-woman visits. Unfortunately, too often the visits are rushed and either the patient or the provider is not fully prepared to discuss all of the available methods for the patient in the level of detail required for an informed decision. Many patients may already have an idea of what they want, but is it the best/safest option for that particular patient?

For providers, our previous recommended sources included the excellent pocketbook called Managing Contraception (not available as an app), the CDC’s Contraception app, and Dr. Steinberg’s Contraception app. The World Health Organization also has an app based on their 2015 Medical Eligibility for Contraception 5th Edition document and MEC Wheel, but we felt the above options were more complete for providers.

For patient education, the options are more limited. For many years, I have used the ARHP website, Method Match, for aiding patients in making an informed decision, but they have unfortunately closed their doors. Luckily, the Pentagon’s Defense Health Agency (DHA) has just released an app designed to help patients make an informed decision. Their new app, Decide + Be Ready, contains easy to follow information about each form of birth control. The app is a joint project between providers at DHA and the Uniformed Services University (USU) with the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF).

Additionally, the Decide + Be Ready app allows patients to create and save questions to ask at the provider well-woman visit. The app guides patients through a unique process to create their own birth control profile based on their preferences and health conditions.

Likes

  • Easy to follow and answers the most common questions about all forms of contraception
  • Ability for patients to create a unique birth control profile
  • Unique deployment-related content yet still applicable to all women

Dislikes

  • Some screens in the app are seemingly hidden
  • Some patients may not find the information detailed enough
  • Not available for Android at this time (but coming soon)

This post originally appeared on iMedicalApps.com.

1969-12-31T19:00:00-0500

last updated

Source: MedicalNewsToday.com