Understanding the role of pharmacies as contraceptive outlets for young people (ages 18-24) in Coastal Kenya

Abstract

This dissertation sought to develop an understanding of how private retail pharmacies currently serve as sources of contraception for young people (age 18-24) in Kwale County, Kenya. The study used mixed methods, informed by a systematic review of the literature to determine, for young people in Kwale County: who uses pharmacies, what makes these outlets appealing sources of contraception, and what contraception services look like in practice. Young people age 18-24 and pharmacy personnel were included as participants. Data collection took place between October 2017 and March 2018. Pharmacies were found to be the most popular source of contraception among young people in the study area. The outlets were valued for their privacy, non-judgmental staff, service speed, and prices. Quality concerns, illegal activity, and a lack of regulation were concerning for young people and pharmacy personnel alike. Contraception services have seen important shifts towards bringing services closer to users, through task sharing to pharmacy personnel and other providers, promotion of self-care, and international commitments to ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health services. The recommendations of this dissertation provide a foundation from which programmers and health policymakers can effectively strengthen or even expand the role of pharmacy outlets in contraceptive service provision.