Marie Stopes SA launches telemedicine consultation service

As the lockdown continues, Marie Stopes SA (MSSA) today has reiterated the availability of its Telemedicine Service for women seeking sexual health services during the countrywide lockdown. During this uncertain time, Marie Stopes South African has developed the Telemedicine Consultation Service to provide a convenient way for women who are unable to come to the centre to access their safe abortion services.

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By empowering women with the ability to access the safe pregnancy option service remotely via telemedicine, MSSA aims to reduce unnecessary travel to their clinics during the Lockdown period. To this regard, they have established strict protocols and standards for medical termination procedures and are proud of leading the way in safe, home-based pregnancy option care, making the service provided completely safe, with trained professionals available to guide clients through the process.

The safe, Self-Managed Pregnancy Termination Option procedure is accomplished by using a two-pill combo that works to safely terminate the pregnancy. This procedure offers a safe and accessible alternative for women without the risk of future pregnancy complications.

The consultation Service is in place for women and girls who are 4-9 weeks into their pregnancy. These will be considered eligible for the Self-Managed Pregnancy Termination to legally terminate. It is important to note that women with pre-existing medical conditions may not be eligible for the service. Clients will be able to access the home-based abortion service by calling the Marie Stopes South Africa toll free line (0800 11 77 85) to arrange a phone consultation.

Trained service professionals are available to discuss client eligibility and options available at the stage of pregnancy. The Teleconsultation takes approximately 20 minutes and will provide the necessary information to equip the client to be able to manage the process. This will include information on how the process works, what to expect, delivery or collection process as well as the aftercare and follow up process.

After 72 hours, a nurse will follow up with a call to check if all medication has been taken by the patient and thereafter assess their response and progress. An aftercare nurse will be available round the clock should any client require that service through the MSSA contact centre.

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