Public Health in the Rockies 2026

Access to comprehensive, person-centered contraceptive care remains limited in rural and underserved communities, where workforce shortages and restricted clinical scope impede timely service delivery. The Full Scope Forward (FSF) RN Nexplanon Training is a program innovation designed to expand rural registered nurse (RN) capacity to provide evidence-based contraceptive care, including etonogestrel implant (Nexplanon) insertion and removal, within Title X and public health settings.


This hybrid training model integrates asynchronous and synchronous learning using the Podia learning management system and Vimeo for delivery of eight videos, complemented by twelve competency-based job aids. The curriculum emphasizes application of national clinical guidelines, including the U.S. Medical Eligibility Criteria and Selected Practice Recommendations, alongside structured approaches to person-centered contraceptive counseling. Eight Colorado RNs serving rural communities are currently enrolled, with a focus on building clinical confidence, procedural competency, and workflow integration. RNs must complete Nexplanon REMS certification and Organon’s Nexplanon training prior to provision of Nexplanon.

The FSF Training Hub aligns directly with CPHA's strategic plan and objectives, as well as the PHiR conference mission by: (1) strengthening application of evidence-based guidelines to improve contraceptive care outcomes; (2) integrating person-centered counseling frameworks that support reproductive autonomy and informed decision-making; and (3) advancing innovative workforce models by expanding RN scope of practice and leveraging digital tools to increase access and efficiency in low-resource settings.

Preliminary outcomes include increased RN knowledge, improved readiness to provide implant services, and enhanced clinic capacity to offer same-day contraceptive care in rural clinics. Ongoing evaluation will assess competency attainment, service uptake, and patient experience.

CORE would like to demonstrate how collaborative, technology enabled training models can transform the SRH workforce and improve equitable access to high quality contraceptive care.