New York Allows Pharmacists to Dispense Contraceptives Without Prescription

NEW YORK — Starting next year, New Yorkers won’t have to go to their doctors to get a prescription for prescription contraceptives. That’s because of a bill Gov. Kathy Hochul signed into law Tuesday as part of her administration’s efforts to expand reproductive rights in the state.

According to the lawwhich will take effect in November 2024, trained pharmacists will be able to distribute self-administered hormonal contraceptives, including oral contraceptive pills, vaginal rings, and the patch, to people even if patients do not have a prescription from their doctor or nurse practitioner.

The legislation is “part of a long journey to find more ways to protect women’s rights in New York State,” Hochul said. “We will do everything in our power to stop the rollback while expanding reproductive rights here in our state.”

Under the law, doctors and nurses will be able to send pharmacists prescriptions for such contraceptives that do not include the names of specific patients. After a patient completes a self-assessment risk assessment questionnaire to help pharmacists identify any risk factors and decide on an appropriate contraceptive, the pharmacist will fill in the patient’s name on the appropriate prescription.

Indiana passed legislation similar to New York’s this week. Oregon was the first state to allow pharmacists to prescribe birth control in 2016.

Under New York law, pharmacists must undergo training that will be outlined by the state Health Commissioner. After dispensing the contraceptives, they would notify the patient’s primary care physician, if the patient has one. Pharmacists may also refuse to dispense contraceptives if they believe it might endanger a patient’s health.

Hochul also signed a second bill that requires schools in the State University of New York and City University of New York systems to provide on-campus access to abortion medication or provide students with referrals to someone who can prescribe such medications.

Maysoon Khan is a staff member of the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on covert issues. Follow Maysoon Khan a Twitter.