Ovulation Induction Protocol for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Patients for the Generalist Obstetrician–Gynecologist [ID 1774]

INTRODUCTION: This project aimed to enhance ovulation induction (OI) for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) by general ob-gyn attendings and residents at University Hospital, ultimately improving access to initial infertility care. METHODS: A quality improvement project was conducted, creating a standardized OI protocol for PCOS patients, developed by a reproductive endocrinology and infertility specialist. This protocol was distributed to all ob-gyn providers, accompanied by an educational session. EPIC dot phrases and patient instructions in English and Spanish were shared. Physicians completed surveys before and 6 months after the protocol’s implementation, with responses scored using a Likert scale. A Wilcoxon test compared pre- and post-implementation results. RESULTS: Forty-two participants (32 residents, 10 attendings) completed the pre-protocol survey, and 35 (25 residents, 10 attendings) completed the post-survey. Before the protocol, 36% of physicians felt comfortable performing OI (50% of attendings, 31% of residents), which rose to 71% post-implementation (80% of attendings, 68% of residents, P <.001). The percentage of physicians regularly prescribing letrozole for OI increased from 19% (20% of attendings, 19% of residents) to 46% (50% of attendings, 44% of residents) after implementation ( P <.001). CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS: A standardized OI protocol can effectively be implemented by general ob-gyn physicians to improve initial fertility care for PCOS patients. Further studies are needed to evaluate its effect on access to care for patients with limited resources.