Seattle pilot project makes emergency contraception available directly from pharmacists.

Abstract

In February 1997, the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) endorsed the use of certain oral contraceptives for postcoital emergency contraception (EC). The board of pharmacy, Washington State Pharmacists Association, University of Washington School of Pharmacy, PATH, and a public relations firm are now collaborating upon a 2-year pilot project launched in the Seattle area which enables pharmacists to provide EC under protocol. State legislators, insurers, physicians, pharmacists, and other health care groups are represented on the project's advisory board. Patients in need of EC can locate pharmacy providers, physicians, and clinics by telephoning the national hotline or through the World Wide Web. More than 200 pharmacists, mostly from chain community pharmacies, have been trained for the project. While individual pharmacists may choose not to participate, they are required to refer patients to other providers. Health system providers have thus far not applied for protocols for EC. The University of Washington School of Pharmacy will participate in evaluating the project's effect upon access to EC and reducing unintended pregnancies.