New York has taken a step towards enhancing access to birth control by allowing pharmacists to provide hormonal contraception without a prescription.
Governor Kathy Hochul signed a directive on Tuesday, March 19th, that permits pharmacists to distribute three types of FDA-approved hormonal contraceptives – oral pills, vaginal rings, and contraceptive patches – directly to individuals without requiring a doctor’s prescription.
With immediate effect, the directive mandates pharmacists to conduct patient assessments before providing approval.
Patients will undergo a questionnaire mandated by the Department of Health, covering past and family medical history.
Subsequently, together, they will determine the most suitable option, whether it be a birth control pill, a vaginal ring, or a patch.
The directive is intended to make contraception more accessible, especially for those who face barriers to reaching a primary care provider.
Joseph McCaffrey, a pharmacist, told ABC7, “It’s definitely going to expand access which is good, so that’s what we want, people that might not be able to afford to see a doctor can still get access to the medication that they could’ve already been on, but then they can’t get refills on.”
The move simplifies the process of getting contraceptives for women in rural and underserved areas.
Governor Hochul emphasized New York’s commitment to reproductive rights and access to family planning care, remarking, “At a time when reproductive rights are under attack, New York State will continue to fight for every individual’s right to access the health care they need. Starting a family is a deeply personal decision and New York State will always be a place where people can access safe and effective contraceptives.”
Following the reversal of Roe vs. Wade, New York has further strengthened reproductive rights, extending protections to individuals from outside the state.
New York State Acting Health Commissioner James McDonald stated, “Whether you’re a visitor or a resident, it’s available to you, what we’ve done today by signing this order, if you want to come to New York and have contraception, I’ve issued a prescription for you.”
The initiative allows pharmacists to issue up to a 12-month supply of contraceptives after a simple screening process.
It represents a cheaper alternative to other over-the-counter options and ensures insurance coverage for eligible individuals.
Over two dozen states have enacted legislation to broaden access to hormonal birth control, primarily by permitting pharmacists to directly dispense the medication or operate under a standing order from a physician, beginning with California in 2013.
