Expanding Access: More NC pharmacies to provide contraceptives without a prescription
NORTH CAROLINA (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Contraceptive services at independent and chain pharmacies are expanding across North Carolina, health officials said.
According to the NC Department of Health and Human Services, soon people across the state will be able to receive free contraceptive services without a prescription at multiple locations.
Those seeking contraceptives will also receive counseling and education from a pharmacist about options for contraception and other preventive services, NCDHHS said. On Tuesday, state and local leaders will recognize the expansion, which falls during Women’s Health Week.
“Thanks to the many pharmacies across the state that stepped up to ensure the people in their communities have access to contraception, prenatal vitamins, and other health care resources they need to thrive,” NC Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley said.
More than half of all pregnancies in North Carolina are unintended, which can unfortunately lead to poor maternal and infant outcomes, NCDHHS said. Expansion of contraceptive services improves the health of moms, babies, and families across the state, health officials said.
Retail and independent pharmacies in North Carolina are now providing contraceptive services in 84 counties. To fill coverage gaps, Ingles Markets Pharmacies will begin contraceptive services at pharmacies in select counties in the western part of the state by the end of May.
Walgreens will begin providing services in select NC counties by the end of June.
The expanded access is particularly beneficial in rural areas that have fewer providers. The map below shows where North Carolinians can view the participating pharmacies closest to them:
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