LARC Training FAQs
We have provided some answers to questions we often get asked about practical LARC training or becoming a LARC trainer. If you cannot find the answer to your question below, you may find it in the following documents. Otherwise, please get in touch with us by emailing administration@nzcsrh.org.nz.
Useful documents:
Long-acting Reversible Contraception Health practitioner training principles and standards 2022
Long-acting Reversible Contraception Principles and standards for trainers 2022
New Zealand Aotearoa’s guidance on contraception
FAQs
How do I know if I fit the criteria to be an inserter?
The Aotearoa New Zealand standards for LARC insertion are set by Manatū Hauora (see useful documents above). NZCSRH endorses these standards and the need for practitioners to demonstrate that they are competent to this level. If you have checked the standards and you are still unsure, feel free to reach out to a LARC trainer to discuss.
I have previously inserted/removed LARCs but have not done so for a few years; do I need to re-do my training from scratch?
The Aotearoa New Zealand standards for LARC insertion are set by Manatū Hauora.
NZCSRH endorses these standards and the need for practitioners to demonstrate that they are competent to this level.
The first step is to complete the relevant training requirements module from the Register for a course page. A trainer will then need to do an observation and assess how many training sessions are needed to gain competency. Competence is described in our DOPS assessment forms as all steps or tasks proficiently performed in the proper sequence.
I have previously inserted/removed LARCs in another country; can I continue to offer these procedures in New Zealand?
The Aotearoa New Zealand standards for LARC insertion are set by Manatū Hauora.
NZCSRH endorses these standards and the need for practitioners to demonstrate that they are competent to this level.
If you are unsure about your pre-existing knowledge and experience, please complete the relevant training requirements module from the Register for a course page. Once completed, you can request a trainer to come and do a fast-track DOPS assessment with you.
Will the person being observed have already submitted all of the training evidence (resus cert, NCTS courses, license etc) to NZCSRH, or do I have to get all of that information?
As the trainer, you need to check the trainee has completed the NCTS LARC theory modules, and fit the requirements of the MoH New Zealand Aotearoa's guidance on contraception, and the Long-acting Reversible Contraception Health practitioner training principles and standards 2022. All of this is available through the relevant module on the Register for a course page.
What is a fast-track sign off?
When someone has already been performing LARC procedures, they may not need to do a full course of training. With a fast-track, a trainer observes someone performing a LARC procedure, to confirm they fit the standards and are practising to a competent level as per the DOPS forms. We have found some people need more than one session because they need to make some amendments to their practise.
Who pays for the training?
Some PHOs provide funding for LARC training. Please check with them first. If there are no other funding options available, NZCSRH trainers can claim funding through NZCSRH to provide LARC training to people outside their usual place of work.
What funding is available for LARC inserters?
Some PHOs have funding available for performing LARC procedures. Some PHOs require health practitioners to be signed off as competent, before being able to claim the funding. Please check with your PHO in the first instance.
How do trainers get paid for doing training and/or a fast-track observation and sign-off?
Once training is complete, trainers need to supply a copy of the DOPS form/s and complete the claim form. Contact administration@nzcsrh.org.nz if you are unsure on this process.
Do I have to be competent in all types of LARCs to become a trainer?
No. Provided you meet the criteria, you can choose to become a trainer in just one, or multiple types of LARC procedure.
Who keeps the hard copy of the DOPS form/s once completed?
We recommend the person who has been trained keep it as evidence of their training. A copy should also be submitted to administration@nzcsrh.org.nz.
Does the trainee get a certificate when they have completed training?
Once trainees complete the relevant module from the Register for a course page, they will automatically be issued a theory requirements certificate. For practical competence, the DOPS form/s are sufficient; however, we will also issue a certificate on evidence of practical requirements being completed once the DOPS form/s are submitted.
Do I need to be signed off by a NZCSRH trainer?
The NZCSRH has provided a train the trainer course to facilitate people’s confidence and competence at fitting the National LARC Trainer Standards. There are other people who fit the criteria to be a trainer, who have achieved their trainer status through other organisations.
I was trained before the new standards. How do I know if I’m still practising within the standards?
Trainer: We review your documentation and will advise what you are missing.
Trainee: Have a look at the standards and if you aren’t sure, ask your trainer.
Pre-existing knowledge and experience – check out the standards – not sure then maybe ask a trainer to come and do a fast-track for you.
Do I have to be signed off before I attend the LARC Train the Trainer course?
Yes. We can help to facilitate a fast-track after if this is the only component you are missing.