A pharmacist managed Emergency Contraception (EC) program for students was initiated at the University of Southern California (USC) Campus Pharmacy. In the state of California, pharmacist provided EC is generally not available due in part to restrictive scope of practice regulations for pharmacists. In conjunction with the Director of the Student Health Center, a novel collaborative practice agreement was established allowing University pharmacists to provide EC services to students. The methodology used to establish this program provides vital lessons learned to other pharmacists contemplating establishing EC services. The physical environment of the pharmacy was altered to create a semi-private counseling area where EC services could be provided with confidentiality. In addition, the workflow and staffing was adjusted to accommodate the anticipated increased patient care load. The pharmacists then attended a state sponsored educational program taught by Family Planning and the state pharmacists association. Using a protocol based on, and in consultation with, the Washington Pharmacists EC program, the details of the day to day operation of the USC EC program were formalized. Finally, using a Network Model approach, a targeted advertising campaign was launched in an attempt to modify student knowledge, attitudes, and practices relating to pharmacist-provided EC services. Anticipated benefits to individual students include availability of EC products and services in one convenient pharmacy location, 7-days a week, and in a non-judgmental, non-stigmatized environment. Benefits to student and public health include increased referral to Student Health for sexually transmitted infections, family planning, and rape counseling.
Learning Objectives: A Pharmacist Managed Emergency Contraception Program
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.