The role of pharmacists and emergency contraception: Are pharmacists' perceptions of emergency contraception predictive of their dispensing practices?

Alice R. Richman, Ellen M. Daley, Julie Baldwin, Jeff Kromrey, Kathleen O'Rourke, Kay Perrin

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

28 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: Pharmacists can play a critical role in the access to emergency contraception (EC). We assessed if knowledge and attitudes were predictive of EC dispensing among a statewide sample of Florida pharmacists, who have legal authority to refuse to dispense medications. Study Design: In 2008, surveys were mailed to a random sample of 1264 pharmacists registered with the Florida Board of Pharmacy. Data from 272 pharmacists (22% response rate) were analyzed using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression. Results: Fifty-six percent of respondents incorrectly answered that EC causes birth defects, and 46% replied that it causes abortion. Only 22% said that EC can be purchased in advance of need. Many felt uncomfortable dispensing to adolescents (61%) and men (58%). Knowledge about EC was the most important predictor of dispensing [odds ratio (OR)=1.57, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.22-2.03]. In particular, pharmacists who reported that EC does not act as an abortifacient were more likely to dispense it (OR=4.64, 95% CI 2.15-10.00). Conclusions: Correct information about EC was the most important predictor of pharmacists' dispensing EC. To expand availability of EC, pharmacists will have to become better informed.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)370-375
Number of pages6
JournalContraception
Volume86
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 2012
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Access to care
  • Dispensing practice
  • Emergency contraceptive pill
  • Pharmacists

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Reproductive Medicine
  • Obstetrics and Gynecology

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