Without a Prescription Women in eight California counties can now obtain emergency contraception without a prescription through a new pilot program launched by a public health coalition, the Los Angeles Times reports. Some pharmacists have agreed to be available on call and during the weekend for women who might need EC on short notice. However, some lawmakers and physicians feel that pharmacists should not be licensed to dispense the drug without a physician referral. It is a very clever idea, but it seems there is a loophole.
Some lawmakers are also wary of the program.
In an effort to prevent minors from obtaining EC, the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors is seeking a federal waiver to ban the drug from county-run clinics. San Bernardino County is not participating in the pilot program. While OTC distribution may increase women's access to EC, sales are not likely to rise significantly as a result, Ira Freeman of Key Pharmacy in North Hollywood said.