This study aims to understand and address the challenges faced by Latinx individuals receiving remote medication abortion services, ensuring these services are culturally sensitive and responsive to the needs of diverse Latinx users. The study will use a mixed methods approach: a survey and qualitative human-centered design research. The survey, leveraging provider and support platforms to recruit a target of ~100 respondents, will seek to identify key barriers and support needs. ~20-25 participants will then be engaged in qualitative research and co-design, with a focus on groups that face significant challenges. Through participatory research, we will deepen understanding of factors identified in the survey, including emotional drivers and social influences, as well as the role that accompaniment services can play in user experience. Co-design workshops will prototype solutions to improve user experience through the journey, with potential new features for remote medication abortion providers and supportive services.

Under the leadership of Principal Investigator Roopan Gill, a multidisciplinary team from Vitala Global and Dalberg will lead this research, bringing expertise in reproductive health, equity-focused participatory research, and digital innovation. The team will receive mentorship from Dr. Sarah Munro and will benefit from input from an Advisory Committee of experts and remote medication abortion providers. The findings will inform practical recommendations for abortion and support service providers, to inform more equitable process and product design that reduces barriers faced by diverse Latinx users, while filling gaps in the evidence base around user experiences to inform funding, clinical practice, and policy.