This bill establishes a framework in Iowa that allows pharmacists to dispense self-administered hormonal contraceptives, such as oral contraceptives, vaginal rings, and patches, without requiring a prior prescription from a healthcare practitioner. It defines these contraceptives and sets forth the conditions under which pharmacists can dispense them, including the necessity of a standing order from the medical director of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Pharmacists are authorized to provide an initial three-month supply and subsequent twelve-month supplies, contingent upon meeting specific training and patient assessment requirements, such as conducting a self-screening risk assessment and a blood pressure screening.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions that protect pharmacists and the medical director from civil and criminal liability when dispensing these contraceptives in accordance with the established guidelines. It amends existing laws to ensure that insurance policies cover self-administered hormonal contraceptives dispensed by pharmacists under the new regulations, effective January 1, 2027. The bill also mandates collaboration between HHS and relevant boards to adopt administrative rules for implementation and directs enhancements to the drug prescribing information program to include data on the dispensing of these contraceptives.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 514C.19