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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Nicole Monastersky, MPH, Sharon Cohen Landau, MPH, and Belle Taylor-McGhee. Pharmacy Access Partnership, 614 Grand Avenue, Suite 324, Oakland, CA 94610, 5102720150, btmcghee@phi.org

While the FDA drags its feet to make a decision regarding over-the-counter access to emergency contraception (EC), momentum and potential at the state-level to improve EC access have clearly been demonstrated by individual and collaborative state efforts. EC pharmacy access is available in eight states (WA, CA, NM, AK, HI, ME, NH, MA) and increasingly serves as a viable and timely access point for women seeking EC, particularly women without a regular healthcare provider or health insurance. Of the 22 states interested in pharmacy access, only 12 introduced legislation in 2005 and early 2006. Direct financial support was cited as critical to stimulate greater momentum.

To increase access to EC in 2006, Pharmacy Access Partnership instituted a re-granting program funding seven state-level pharmacy and advocacy groups. Recipients of the funds created targeted collaborations between pharmacists and healthcare advocates to establish and implement EC pharmacy access programs. Efforts that included and increased the commitment of pharmacy stakeholders to address EC were considered highest priority to ensure the promotion of effective pharmacy related practices and increase the number of pharmacies/pharmacists that provide EC. This presentation highlights the potential of re-granting initiatives to foster collaboration between pharmacy and advocacy communities toward advancing efforts to reduce unintended pregnancy. These successful state-level strategies represent valuable approaches from which other public health professionals can learn.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to

• Recognize the importance of fostering outreach, advocacy and educational opportunities to promote EC access at the state level. 2)Identify successful approaches to promote EC pharmacy access. 3)Understand the potential for long-term sustainability for state-level activities.

Keywords: Contraception, Access and Services

Related Web page: www.Go2EC.org

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Not Answered