US Pharm. 2015;40(12):6.
Sacramento, CA/Salem, OR—New laws in California and Oregon will soon allow pharmacists to prescribe hormonal contraceptives such as birth control pills, patches, and rings without a doctor’s approval. Starting in early 2016, pharmacists will be authorized to prescribe contraceptives after a quick screening process in which women complete a questionnaire about their health and medical histories. The contraceptives will be covered by insurance. California has no age restrictions, but Oregon will require a prior prescription from a physician for those under age 18 years. The laws are an effort to make birth control more accessible and reduce unintended pregnancies.
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