This bill introduces new regulations for the prescribing and dispensing of self-administered hormonal contraceptives by pharmacists in Iowa. It defines "self-administered hormonal contraceptive" to include FDA-approved methods such as oral contraceptives, vaginal rings, and patches, while explicitly excluding abortion-inducing drugs. Under the bill, pharmacists can dispense these contraceptives under a standing order from the medical director of the Department of Health and Human Services, allowing them to provide up to a twelve-month supply without a prior prescription. The bill also establishes requirements for pharmacists, including completing a standardized training program and obtaining a self-screening risk assessment from patients, while ensuring that they and the medical director are protected from civil and criminal liability when acting in good faith.

Moreover, the bill mandates that Medicaid must cover self-administered hormonal contraceptives as prescribed, enhancing access for eligible individuals. It grants immunity to pharmacists and medical directors who comply with the bill's provisions, protecting them from liability for damages, provided they act reasonably. The bill also requires the Department of Health and Human Services to collaborate with relevant boards to adopt administrative rules for implementation and amends existing coverage provisions to ensure that group policies issued in Iowa after January 1, 2026, include coverage for self-administered hormonal contraceptives. Additionally, it mandates that Medicaid coverage for prescription contraceptives aligns with private insurance offerings under the new regulations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 155A.3, 514C.19