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Senate approves second substitute narrowing pharmacy access to hormonal contraceptives to adults
Summary
The Senate approved a second substitute to SB 184 that allows pharmacists to dispense self‑administered hormonal contraceptives only to women 18 and older, requires screening by an approved algorithm, counseling on side effects, and physician referral for high‑risk patients. Sponsors said high‑risk patients will be referred to physicians and pharmacists must provide written and verbal counseling.
The Senate passed a second substitute for Senate Bill 184 that narrows a previously broader pharmacist‑dispensing provision and establishes screening, counseling and follow‑up requirements.
Senator Wyler, speaking for the floor, explained the second substitute limits pharmacist dispensing of self‑administered hormonal contraceptives to women 18 years and older. "Patients will be screened using an algorithm approved by the medical and pharmaceutical boards," Wyler said, adding that high‑risk patients would be ineligible for pharmacy dispensing and would be referred to physicians.
Under the second substitute, pharmacists must offer both written and verbal counseling on side effects, infection risks and when to seek emergency attention, and patients who receive contraceptives from a pharmacist must see a physician within 24 months for a physical exam, according to sponsor remarks.
Senator Davis and others asked clarifying questions about the changes from the first substitute; sponsor response stressed the only substantive change was age‑limitation to adults and described safeguards for patient safety.
The Senate moved and passed the second substitute on the floor and ordered the bill to be sent to the House for consideration.
